Imagine a basketball legend surpassing one of the greatest scorers in NBA history—a moment that redefines the sport’s legacy. That’s exactly what happened when Kevin Durant leapfrogged Wilt Chamberlain to claim the 7th spot on the NBA’s all-time career scoring list. But here’s where it gets even more remarkable: Durant achieved this feat with a 3-pointer in the third quarter of the Houston Rockets’ 111-105 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers on Friday night, January 9, 2026. This wasn’t just another game—it was a historic milestone that cemented Durant’s place among the sport’s immortals.
Heading into the matchup, Durant needed just 15 points to surpass Chamberlain’s 31,419 career points. With 7:57 left in the third quarter, Durant’s signature jumper pushed his total to 31,422, officially etching his name into the record books. He finished the night with 30 points, a testament to his relentless consistency even in his 18th NBA season. And this is the part most people miss: Durant also crossed the 8,000 career rebounds mark that same night, showcasing his all-around dominance on the court.
At 37 years old, Durant, a 15-time All-Star, continues to defy expectations. His next target? Dirk Nowitzki, who sits in 6th place with 31,560 points. But here’s the controversial question: Can Durant sustain this pace long enough to climb even higher on the list, or is age finally catching up to the superstar? It’s a debate that divides fans and analysts alike.
Rockets coach Ime Udoka wasn’t surprised by Durant’s achievement, praising his work ethic and daily dedication. Meanwhile, Blazers coach Tiago Splitter reminisced about a young Durant dominating with the Oklahoma City Thunder, scoring 30 points a night with ease. “At his age, it’s just impressive to see him keep doing it,” Splitter noted, sparking another point of contention: How much longer can Durant maintain this level of play?
When the milestone was announced at Portland’s Moda Center, Durant received a standing ovation and a heartfelt hug from Splitter—a moment that transcended rivalry. But let’s not forget the bigger picture: Durant’s journey is a reminder of the relentless pursuit of greatness, even as the clock ticks down on his career.
What do you think? Is Kevin Durant’s legacy already cemented, or does he need to climb higher on the scoring list to truly be considered among the greatest? Let us know in the comments below. The Associated Press contributed to this report. © 2026 ESPN Internet Ventures. All rights reserved.
