Full Breakdown
Kevin Durant Surpasses Wilt Chamberlain on NBA All-Time Scoring List
1/10/2026, 11:43:24 AM
Historic Milestone Achieved
On January 9, 2026, Kevin Durant of the Houston Rockets achieved a significant milestone by surpassing Wilt Chamberlain on the NBA's all-time scoring list. During a game against the Portland Trail Blazers, Durant scored a 3-pointer with 7:57 left in the third quarter, bringing his career total to 31,422 points, thus claiming the seventh position on the list. Chamberlain, who passed away in 1999, finished his career with 31,419 points.
Game Context and Performance
Despite Durant's achievement, the Rockets lost the game 111-105. Durant entered the match needing 15 points to pass Chamberlain and finished with 30 points, 12 rebounds, and four assists. The Rockets led at halftime but faltered in the fourth quarter, allowing the Trail Blazers to rally back for the win. The game highlighted both Durant's scoring prowess and the team's struggles, as they shot only 23% from beyond the arc compared to the Blazers' 36%.
Official Statements & Responses
Durant expressed gratitude for reaching this milestone, stating, "To be amongst the greats is always an honor... Wilt is somebody I studied and tried to look up to." Rockets coach Ime Udoka remarked on Durant's work ethic, emphasizing that his achievements do not surprise those who observe his daily commitment to the game. Blazers coach Tiago Splitter acknowledged Durant's long-standing excellence, recalling his impressive performances since his early career.
Criticism & Opposition
While Durant's scoring achievement is celebrated, some critics highlight the context of the Rockets' loss, questioning the impact of individual accolades on team success. The Rockets, despite having a strong roster, have faced challenges in closing out games, raising concerns about their competitiveness in the Western Conference.
What's Next for Durant
With this milestone, Durant is now focused on surpassing Dirk Nowitzki, who holds the sixth position with 31,560 points. Given Durant's current scoring average of 26.1 points per game, he is on track to potentially pass Nowitzki later in January 2026. As Durant continues to perform at a high level in his 19th NBA season, discussions about his legacy and future achievements are likely to intensify.
Conclusion
Kevin Durant's ascent to seventh on the NBA's all-time scoring list underscores his status as one of the league's greatest scorers. As he continues to break records and contribute to his team's efforts, his legacy in basketball remains firmly established, with further milestones on the horizon.
