Kevin Durant made history by becoming the eighth player in NBA history to score 30,000 points. The 36-year-old Phoenix Suns forward reached the milestone on Tuesday night during a game against the Memphis Grizzlies, sinking a free throw late in the third quarter.
Durant now joins legendary players like LeBron James, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Karl Malone, Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, Dirk Nowitzki, and Wilt Chamberlain in the exclusive 30,000-point club. Julius Erving also achieved this mark when combining his NBA and ABA points.
“It’s a great honor to be mentioned with these legends who have helped shape the game,” Durant said. “I always try to push myself every day and make the most of my career. Being in the same conversation as them means I must be doing something right.”
Durant has won four NBA scoring titles and is still one of the best shooters in the league. Now in his 17th season, he is averaging around 27 points per game while shooting 52% from the field.
Suns coach Mike Budenholzer praised Durant’s dedication and work ethic. “It’s amazing to see how much effort he puts in every day. He pays attention to every detail, works hard, and that’s why he’s reached 30,000 points. He’s a special player and person.”
Durant started his career with the Oklahoma City Thunder (formerly the Seattle SuperSonics), scoring 17,566 points in nine seasons. He later played for the Golden State Warriors (5,374 points), Brooklyn Nets (3,744 points), and now the Suns (3,324 points).
Despite Durant’s impressive 34-point performance, where he made 12 of 18 shots, the Suns lost to the Grizzlies 119-112.
