The sight of Kevin Durant in a Houston Rockets uniform still feels like a fever dream for some, but the reality is hanging in the rafters of the Toyota Center and on the backs of thousands of fans across Texas. When the blockbuster seven-team trade went down in the summer of 2025, it didn't just shift the betting odds for the Western Conference; it sent the secondary market for a Kevin Durant jersey Rockets edition into a total tailspin.
People weren't just surprised he moved. They were shocked by the look.
For nearly his entire career—minus that chaotic but productive stint in Brooklyn—KD has been synonymous with the number 35. It was a tribute to his AAU coach, Charles Craig. But when he touched down in H-Town, he decided to pivot. He ditched the 35 and went back to the number 7, the same digits he wore while playing for the Nets.
Honestly, the move caught some retailers off guard. Fans who had rushed to custom-print "Durant 35" jerseys during the initial trade rumors suddenly found themselves with collector's items that were technically inaccurate before the first tip-off.
🔗 Read more: Texas vs Oklahoma Football Game: Why the Red River Rivalry is Getting Even Weirder
Why the Number 7 Matters for the Rockets Now
The choice of number 7 wasn't just a random grab from the equipment room. Previously, that number belonged to Cam Whitmore, who was shipped off to the Washington Wizards as part of the massive roster shake-up that brought KD to Houston.
With the number vacant, Durant saw a chance for a "clean slate." If you look at his career arc, he's always used jersey numbers to mark distinct eras. Seattle and OKC were the 35 years. Golden State was the peak 35. Brooklyn was the 7 experiment. Phoenix was a return to 35. Now, Houston is the 7 rebirth.
You've probably noticed that the most popular version currently selling out is the Icon Edition—that classic, deep Houston red with white lettering. It looks remarkably sharp. There’s something about the way the single digit "7" sits on the back of those wide Nike Swingman shoulders that just feels right for a player of his stature.
💡 You might also like: How to watch vikings game online free without the usual headache
Spotting a Real Kevin Durant Jersey Rockets Edition
Because the trade was so massive and happened so fast, the market was immediately flooded with "early" versions. If you’re looking to buy one now, you have to be careful. Legitimacy matters, especially if you’re dropping $130 or more.
Authentic Nike jerseys, specifically the ones the players wear on the court, feature a much more porous, breathable fabric. If you find a "Kevin Durant jersey Rockets" online for $50 and the numbers are thick, stiff plastic, it’s a fake.
Real Swingman jerseys use heat-applied twill. They’re meant to be washed without the numbers peeling off after three cycles. Also, look at the jock tag on the bottom left of the front. It should have the NBA logo, the Nike swoosh, and a specific serial number that doesn't look like it was printed on a home inkjet.
📖 Related: Liechtenstein National Football Team: Why Their Struggles are Different Than You Think
The Different Versions You’ll See in the Stands
The Rockets didn't stick to just one look for KD's debut season. They leaned heavily into the "Space City" branding, which has made for some pretty wild jersey variations.
- The Icon Edition (Red): This is the staple. It’s the one KD wore when he passed Wilt Chamberlain for seventh on the all-time scoring list in early 2026. If you want the "official" look, this is it.
- The Association Edition (White): Usually worn for home games, this one is clean but prone to mustard stains at the arena. It’s the favorite for fans who like a more minimalist aesthetic.
- The Statement Edition (Black): This is arguably the most popular among younger fans. The black base with the red "Houston" font makes the number 7 pop. It’s aggressive, much like the way KD has been playing since the trade.
- The City Edition (2025/26): These are the ones that celebrate the moon landing and Houston’s aerospace history. They often feature unique fonts and "Space City" across the chest instead of "Rockets."
Dealing With the "Trade Curse"
There's always a risk when buying a superstar's jersey. Look at what happened to the fans in Phoenix. They bought the 35, and then boom—he’s gone in a historic trade involving 13 players and more draft picks than most people can count on two hands.
However, the consensus among NBA insiders like Jed Katz and the crew at The Athletic is that KD is in Houston to stay for the duration of this contract. The Rockets gave up Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks to get him. They aren't looking to flip him.
Buying a Kevin Durant jersey Rockets shirt right now feels like a safe bet. Even if the team is currently hitting a bit of a mid-season slump, Durant’s individual performance—averaging nearly 30 points a game even with Alperen Sengun sidelined—has solidified his legacy in the city already.
What to Look for When Buying
- Check the "7": If it has a "35," it's either a custom fan-made jersey from before the number was official or a very confused bootleg.
- Sizing: Nike jerseys run a bit slim. If you’re planning on wearing a hoodie underneath for a cold night at the Toyota Center, size up.
- The Sponsor Patch: Authentic jerseys sold at the team shop often include the "Credit Karma" sponsor patch. If you buy from a general retailer like Fanatics, they often don't include the patch. Some fans prefer the cleaner look without the ad, so keep that in mind.
Actionable Advice for Fans
If you're looking to grab one, your best bet is the official NBA Store or the Rockets Team Shop at the Toyota Center to ensure you're getting the 2026 updated fabric tech. Avoid "deal" sites that don't show high-resolution photos of the stitching. If you already own a 35 from his earlier days, keep it in the closet; the "Houston 7" is the only way to represent the current era correctly. Check the return policy before you buy—many "Custom" jerseys with Durant's name are non-refundable even if you get the size wrong.