Full Breakdown
Kevin Durant Surpasses Wilt Chamberlain on NBA All-Time Scoring List
1/11/2026, 10:05:47 PM
Milestone Achievement in Portland
On January 10, 2026, Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant achieved a significant milestone by surpassing Hall of Famer Wilt Chamberlain on the NBA's all-time scoring list. Durant, who entered the game against the Portland Trail Blazers needing 15 points to pass Chamberlain's total of 31,419 points, accomplished this feat with a jumper at the 7:57 mark of the third quarter. He finished the game with 30 points, bringing his career total to 31,422 points, placing him seventh on the all-time list. Dirk Nowitzki, with 31,560 points, is the next player for Durant to target.
Durant's Reflection on the Achievement
Following the game, 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 as much as I can... I’m grateful to reach that.” He emphasized the importance of reflecting on his journey and the people who supported him throughout his career. Durant's performance also highlighted his ongoing elite play, as he is averaging 26.2 points per game in his first season with the Rockets.
Official Statements & Responses
Rockets head coach Ime Udoka commented on Durant's achievement, noting that it did not surprise him given Durant's work ethic and consistency. “No, it doesn’t amaze me when you see the work ethic and what he does on a day-to-day basis,” Udoka stated. Portland head coach Tiago Splitter also praised Durant, recalling his impressive scoring ability since his early years with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Criticism & Opposition
While Durant's achievement is celebrated, some commentators have pointed out that at 37 years old, he is nearing the end of his career. Splitter remarked, “At his age, of course, he’s probably at the end of his career, but just doing that every night is just impressive.” This perspective raises questions about the sustainability of Durant's performance as he continues to age.
What's Next for Durant and the Rockets
Following this milestone, the Rockets, currently holding a 22-13 record, are set to conclude their three-game road trip against the Sacramento Kings on January 15, 2026. Durant's pursuit of further scoring milestones will be closely watched as he aims to climb higher on the all-time scoring list.
Verbatim Quotes
- “To be amongst the greats is always an honor.” — Kevin Durant, Houston Rockets Forward
- “No, it doesn’t amaze me when you see the work ethic and what he does on a day-to-day basis,” — Ime Udoka, Head Coach, Houston Rockets
- “Just a young Kevin Durant, scoring 30 every night, and he just keeps doing that, which is amazing,” — Tiago Splitter, Head Coach, Portland Trail Blazers
Kevin Durant's recent achievement not only cements his legacy in the NBA but also serves as a reminder of the dedication and perseverance required to reach such heights in professional sports.
