In a night full of emotions, Kevin Durant surpassed his idol, Dirk Nowitzki, on the NBA’s all-time scoring list, solidifying his legacy in basketball history. Durant, aware of the proximity to the milestone, needed 17 points to climb to sixth place in the standings. The player scored 18 points in the Rockets’ 119-110 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans. With 31,562 points to his name, two more than Nowitzki (31,560), Durant is now in a privileged position, with Michael Jordan in fifth place with 32,292.
Durant expressed his desire to continue advancing in the standings and see how his career ends, calling it “incredible”. His teammates recognize the magnitude of his achievements.Being up there with Dirk, someone I admired, someone I idolized, someone I competed against. We had great battles. He always supported my career and my game. Being with a legend like him is crazy. And being right under Michael Jordan, it’s crazy.
Kevin Durant
Durant remembered the significant battles with Nowitzki, including the 2011 Western Conference Finals, where Nowitzki’s Mavericks defeated Oklahoma City. Durant admitted that there were times when he felt rivalry with Nowitzki, but over time, he idolized him and sought to emulate his respect in the league. After the game, a special message from Nowitzki was broadcast on the stadium screen.He’s outplaying people every night. He keeps achieving milestones, and acts like it’s nothing. He doesn’t celebrate it. He just plays, and it happens naturally. It’s a testament to what a basketball player is supposed to be.
Jabari Smith Jr.
Durant thanked Nowitzki’s message, highlighting his humility.It’s been incredible to watch his career. He is one of the purest scorers this game has seen. Congratulations KD, keep going. Climb a couple more spots and keep it up.
Dirk Nowitzki
