Kevin Durant passes Michael Jordan for fifth on NBA all-time scoring list
Kevin Durant has passed Michael Jordan to become the fifth-highest scorer in NBA history during the Houston Rockets’ 123-122 victory over the Miami Heat.
The 37-year-old scored 27 points on Saturday night to reach 32,294 career points, surpassing the Chicago Bulls legend by a two-point margin.
Entering the fourth quarter with 21 points, the two-time NBA champion hit back-to-back three-pointers to eclipse the iconic milestone.
Looking ahead to Kobe Bryant
After sinking the record-breaking shot from the right corner, the former Phoenix Suns star briefly raised his arms to acknowledge the ecstatic home crowd.
When asked about passing the six-time NBA champion, the veteran forward made it clear he is not resting on his laurels.
“Four more to go,” he said with a smile.
Next in his sights is Los Angeles Lakers great Kobe Bryant, who currently occupies fourth place with 33,643 career points.
The milestone continues a remarkable season for the 16-time All-Star, who previously moved past Wilt Chamberlain and Dirk Nowitzki earlier in the campaign.
A dramatic finish in Houston
The historic achievement was nearly overshadowed by a tense finale against the Heat.
The Olympic gold medalist missed a potential game-winning jumper in the dying seconds of the contest.
However, team-mate Amen Thompson tipped in the rebound to secure a vital win for the Rockets.
“Just being on a team with greatness like that, it’s inspiring, for sure,” Thompson said.
“Witnessing him break these records, it’s been cool to watch.”
Inspiring the next generation
Houston head coach Ime Udoka praised his star player’s focus amid the intense media spotlight.
“Passing Michael Jordan is obviously a huge accomplishment and we celebrated that with him,” Udoka said.
Despite missing the entire 2019-20 season with a severe Achilles injury, the four-time scoring champion has remained one of the sport’s most prolific offensive threats.
The veteran acknowledged that while the records are an honour, his primary focus remains on his ongoing journey.
“It’s cool, but it’s hard to take in when you’re still on the journey, when you just care about getting better,” he said.