Phoenix Suns superstar Kevin Durant and WNBA star Rhyne Howard sparked attention recently with a shared Instagram photo, capturing a moment where Durant appeared to rest his head on the Atlanta Dream guard. The snapshot was reposted by Durant with the caption, “Oh hey,” accompanied by a smiley face with red hearts emoji.

This intriguing moment unfolded after the Suns’ preseason victory over the Portland Trail Blazers. Howard, who was present at the game, also shared a photo from the stands. The connection between Durant and Howard has been a subject of curiosity, with Howard shedding light on their initial meeting back in March.

On the Mercury’s “The It Girls” podcast, Howard revealed that she reached out to Durant upon discovering he admired her playing style. Recalling the experience of meeting Durant in person, she shared, “It had been brought to my attention that I was one of his favorite players, and I was like, ‘Thee Kevin Durant loves me?’ So, I was home on a break, went to a game, and I DM’d him, saying, ‘I think I need to meet you officially, so can I come down?’”

While rumors about their relationship status circulate, neither Durant nor Howard has confirmed or denied any romantic involvement. It’s essential to consider the possibility that they may simply be close friends, especially given Howard’s previous remarks expressing admiration for Durant’s former Golden State Warriors teammate, Klay Thompson, whom she mentioned she would marry.