Scott Brooks was fired by the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday, after seven seasons as head coach of the franchise.

Scott Brooks Is Out In OKC: Ollie or Donovan To Take His Place?

The decision was not a particularly surprising one but a downer nonetheless. Brooks took the Thunder to five playoffs, including a trip to the NBA Finals in 2012.

He oversaw the development of (at least) four bonafide stars in Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, Serge Ibaka, and James Harden. And he was by all accounts a tremendously decent human being. That his offensive schemes and strategies were fundamentally lacking is what did him in, but those other qualities will ensure his tenure in OKC is ultimately remembered fondly.

Kevin Durant recognized this fact, and was quick to thank Brooks for their years together via a heartfelt Instagram post Wednesday night. Durant said that he and Brooks "accomplished a lot together," and admitted that he would "forever be grateful" for the opportunity to play under him

Read Durant's statement on Scott Brooks' firing in its entirety below:

 Thank you Scotty!

A photo posted by Kevin Durant (@easymoneysniper) on Apr 22, 2015 at 3:38pm PDT

Check out more coverage of the end of the Scott Brooks era in OKC below: