Core Tip: On March 25th, Beijing time, after several years' struggle, kevin durant is now one of the most popular stars in the league and is gradually regarded as the future MVP by the media and fans. If lebron james chose No.23 to pay tribute to Michael Jordan, Durant's No.35 is also full of respect. \x0d\ TOM Sports News On March 25th, Beijing time, after several years of struggle, kevin durant is now one of the most popular stars in the league and is gradually regarded as the future MVP by the media and fans. News about Durant can be seen everywhere. However, it seems that not many people know why Durant chose 35 as his back number. Darrell McBurley of Oklahoma City Online solved the mystery for the fans. \x0d\ If lebron james chose No.23 to pay tribute to Michael Jordan, Durant's No.35 is also a full tribute. However, Durant paid tribute to his first basketball coach, Charles Craig. On April 30, 2005, Craig was shot dead at the age of 35. Durant has been wearing No.35 jersey to commemorate this mentor since his college days. "I just hope that through my own efforts, more people will know about him," Durant said when talking about his choice of back number. "I want to use my efforts to make Charles's name remembered by the world." \x0d\ Indeed, Durant averaged 29.7 points this season. From mid-February last year to the end of February this year, Durant scored 25+ in 29 consecutive games. Since 1986- 1987 season, only Jordan's scoring record has been ahead of him. When it comes to his achievements, Durant is not arrogant at all. "I know that all my achievements are because of him. I'm playing for Charles. " Durant said. Since he met Craig at the age of eight, Durant began to have a new understanding of basketball. "At that time, he would accompany me and teach me every day," Durant recalled. "When I just heard his bad news, I couldn't believe it. I always thought it was just a joke. Now, I have the opportunity to make countless fans wear my No.35 jersey. Every time I see such a scene, I will think of how he taught me to control the ball and keep me enthusiastic. I hope Charles can live on the court forever through his own efforts. "