PORTLAND, Ore. — Kevin Durant made history on Friday night by passing Wilt Chamberlain to become seventh on the NBA’s career scoring list. He achieved this milestone during the third quarter of a game against the Portland Trail Blazers, scoring a 3-pointer that brought his total to 31,422 points, surpassing Chamberlain’s 31,419.
Durant, who is now 37 years old and in his 18th season, finished the game with 30 points and 12 rebounds, also hitting a significant mark of over 8,000 career rebounds. After the game, he shared his feelings about reaching this milestone. “To be amongst the greats is always an honor,” he said, expressing admiration for Chamberlain. “He set a standard for NBA players. I’m grateful to have gotten here, inspired by what he contributed to basketball.”
Experts have noted Durant’s work ethic is a key factor in his success. Rockets coach Ime Udoka remarked, “No, it doesn’t amaze me when you see the work ethic and what he does on a day-to-day basis.” This dedication has helped him remain a star player, even into the later years of his career.
Fans at the Moda Center celebrated Durant’s achievement, giving him warm applause. Blazers coach Tiago Splitter recalled watching a young Durant score effortlessly with the Oklahoma City Thunder. “He keeps doing that, which is amazing,” Splitter said. “At his age, he’s probably at the end of his career, but he still performs at a high level.”
Historically, reaching such milestones in the NBA often sparks discussions about a player’s legacy. As of now, Dirk Nowitzki sits in sixth place on the career scoring list with 31,560 points, setting the stage for an exciting chase. Recent statistics show that veteran players like Durant, who maintain high performance, are becoming more common, with growing longevity in the league. The NBA has implemented various player safety measures that allow older athletes to compete effectively longer than in previous decades.
Durant’s journey has not just been about the numbers. He reflected on the significance of the moment, acknowledging the support from those who’ve helped him along the way. “These milestones always have me reflecting on the journey I’ve been through,” he mentioned. “I’m so grateful for the classy city of Portland for recognizing me in that moment.”
In today’s NBA, discussions around legacy and scoring milestones are trending on social media. Fans frequently share their thoughts about players like Durant and their place in history. As he continues to make his mark, Durant embodies dedication, talent, and passion for the game, inspiring upcoming generations of players. For more insights on NBA milestones and player legacies, you can check the NBA’s official site.
