One of the most famous people to come out of Prince George's County was back home Thursday to be celebrated with a parade.
Kevin Durant Day officially kicked off at 10 a.m. with a parade in Seat Pleasant, Maryland. The day celebrates the accomplishments of the NBA All-Star, who was born in Suitland.
He rode in the parade in a silver Corvette, greeting fans of all ages and hoisting the NBA championship trophy and signing autographs.
Seat Pleasant Mayor Eugene Grant said locals were honored to see Durant return.
"We're very excited that Kevin has not forgotten from whence he's come," Grant said live on News4 early Thursday.
One young fan said he sees Durant as a role model.
"It just goes to show that people from your hometown can make it," he said.
Durant's mother, Wanda Durant, said the children who went to see the star reminded her of her own son.
"When I see these little kids and these teenagers, I see my sons, and I see Kevin," she said. "It's quite rewarding to be here and see them looking up to my son."
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"I'm just excited because it's one thing for him to come to his hometown and bring the trophy that he one," Seat Pleasant resident Warren Johnson said. "It's so proud to a lot of people."
"I would tell him to ignore all the negative comments, and keep it moving, and praise God he's gotten as far as he's gotten. Amen," said Roslyn Wise, who took off work to be there.
More than 20,000 people were expected to attend.
Durant has donated almost $1 million to the community, Grant said. The funds have gone toward basketball courts and the gym where Durant got his own training, the mayor said.
"I think it was something that I instilled in my son," his mother said. "He's building his own legacy now, so yes, it's just important for him to give back."
Durant helped lead the Golden State Warriors to an NBA championship in June, defeating LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers.
NBC4 sponsored the festivities.
The parade began at Goodwin Park.
