Full Breakdown
Kevin Durant Surpasses Dirk Nowitzki on NBA's All-Time Scoring List
1/19/2026, 10:04:59 PM
Milestone Achievement in Houston
On January 18, 2026, Kevin Durant achieved a significant milestone by surpassing his idol, Dirk Nowitzki, to move into sixth place on the NBA's all-time scoring list. Durant, playing for the Houston Rockets, scored 18 points in a 119-110 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans, needing just 17 points to pass Nowitzki's total of 31,560 points. With this performance, Durant now has 31,562 career points, placing him just behind Michael Jordan, who holds fifth place with 32,292 points.
Reflections on Rivalry and Respect
Durant expressed his admiration for Nowitzki, highlighting their competitive history. "To be up there with Dirk, somebody I looked up to, I idolized, I competed against... it’s just insane," Durant stated. He recalled their intense matchups, including the 2011 Western Conference Finals, where Nowitzki's Dallas Mavericks defeated Durant's Oklahoma City Thunder. "There were times going into a series I hated Dirk... I’m sure it was vice versa," Durant reflected, acknowledging the mutual respect that developed over the years.
Acknowledgment from Nowitzki
Following the game, a video message from Nowitzki was played on the jumbotron, congratulating Durant on his achievement. Nowitzki humorously remarked, "Not super happy about him passing me," before praising Durant's scoring ability. "He is one of the purest, smoothest scorers the game has ever seen," Nowitzki added, emphasizing Durant's unique skill set as a 7-footer with a guard's game. Durant appreciated the gesture, noting, "For him to take time out of his day to send me a message... speaks to how humble Dirk is."
Team Performance and Future Outlook
In addition to Durant's milestone, the Rockets showcased a strong team performance, with Jabari Smith Jr. scoring a season-high 32 points. The victory marked Houston's third win in four games, improving their standing in the league. As Durant continues to climb the scoring charts, he aims to keep adding to his total, stating, "I want to continue to keep stacking, keep climbing up the charts, just see how I finish."
Conclusion
Kevin Durant's ascent to sixth place on the NBA's all-time scoring list not only highlights his individual talent but also reflects the respect and admiration he holds for Dirk Nowitzki. As both players continue their legacies, the basketball community watches closely to see how Durant's career unfolds in the coming seasons.
