Kevin Durant played all 48 minutes of Game 6 of the NBA Western Conference Finals and put a sudden stop to San Antonio's quest for another NBA title. Durant scored 34 points and had 14 rebounds as Oklahoma City advanced to the NBA Finals. Concord native Matt Bonner had only four points in the Western Conference finals and didn't play in Game 6 as Spurs coach Gregg Popovich stayed with a smaller lineup against the Thunder.

Sunday News: What's your analysis of the loss to Oklahoma City?

Matt Bonner: It doesn't feel good, especially after winning (20) games in a row going into the playoffs. They were the better team. Kevin Durant was absolutely on fire down the stretch of those games. When someone that talented is making shots, it can be a feeling of helplessness. You can only tip your hat to them.

SN: How about that environment at Oklahoma City?

MB: They definitely have a huge advantage on their home court. It's incredibly loud. The fans really behind the team, and they do have a lot of class. They're not mean or negative toward the other team. They really do just cheer for their team. Reminds me of San Antonio as far as the city and fans and the way the organization conducts itself. When we lost Game 5 at home, we knew we were facing a big challenge going to Oklahoma City for Game 6.

SN: Why did Spurs coach Gregg Popovich mess with the lineup so much?

MB: A big part of that was Oklahoma City's lineup and how they went small and kept Durant out there. It threw a wrench in our usual rotation and lineup we put out there. Durant was the best player on the court, and he took over and did what the great players do. LeBron James did the same thing against the Celtics. They single-handedly made big plays to clinch the game. Those guys are so physically gifted.

SN: The Spurs were the best team in the NBA entering the playoffs. Why not make the Thunder adapt and stay with your lineup?

MB: That's definitely one way to go. The thing that makes it really hard against Oklahoma City are guys like Durant and (Thabo) Sefolosha and (Serge) Ibaka are so long and athletic. They can guard multiple positions and create a matchup problem at the other end.

SN: Can you reflect on your 8th NBA season and was it frustrating to not play as much in the Western Conference finals?

MB: As a whole, I thought the season was very successful. As a team, we have the players and tools to come back next year and make another run. It was fun to prove all the pundits wrong. Every year, we always hear about how we are too old. Every year, we are right there making a championship run. On a personal level, I thought I played pretty well. Each year, I learn a little more and gain from experience. This year was no different.

SN: It was surprising to hear TV commentators saying Tim Duncan should retire. Looks like he could play another few years.

MB: You're right. He looked great this year. He looked about five years younger. Hopefully he'll be back.

SN: Duncan is a free agent. Can you imagine him playing for another team?

MB: Definitely not. That would be like picturing Larry Bird in another jersey besides the Celtics.

SN: Kevin Garnett is a free agent, too. There has been some talk of the Spurs bringing in KG. Your thoughts?

MB: That would be amazing. I know he's getting up there in age, but I think Kevin Garnett proved he still has it even though he wasn't 100 percent the whole season. He's one of the most competitive guys. He plays great defense and brings intensity and leadership. It would be cool.

SN: What kind of respect did LeBron earn from players around the league?

MB: We all know how good he is. What drives me nuts are the people in the media who are talking trash about him one day and singing his praises the next. It's like one day he's a choke artist and the next day he's the greatest thing since sliced bread.

SN: We are picking the Thunder to win the NBA Finals.

MB: I think so, too, but not by much.

SN: Let's create a media buzz and say Matt Bonner should be traded to the Celtics. What would your father, Dave, say about that? Also, happy 60th birthday to big Dave!

MB: Oh, man, that would put Dave Bonner on ulcer watch all summer. Nice one.

For eight straight seasons, Bonner has discussed The NBA Life with radio broadcaster Chris Ryan and N.H. Union Leader reporter Kevin Gray. The interview appears weekly in the N.H. Sunday News, and the radio show can be heard Mondays at 6 p.m. on WGAM 1250 AM, WGHM 900 AM, WKXL 1450 AM and 103.9 FM.