Kevin Durant made history on Tuesday night by becoming the eighth player in NBA history to reach 30,000 career points. The milestone was achieved during the Phoenix Suns’ game against the Memphis Grizzlies, with Durant sinking a free throw late in the third quarter.
He joins an exclusive list that includes legends such as LeBron James, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Karl Malone, Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, Dirk Nowitzki, and Wilt Chamberlain. Durant finished the game with 34 points, though the Suns fell short in a 119-112 loss.
A Historic Achievement
Durant’s entry into the 30,000-point club further cements his legacy as one of the greatest scorers in NBA history. Reflecting on his achievement, he expressed gratitude for being mentioned alongside players who helped shape the game. He emphasized his daily commitment to maximizing his potential and pushing his career forward.
Durant reached the milestone in his 1,101st career game, matching Abdul-Jabbar’s pace, with only Chamberlain and Jordan achieving the feat faster. Suns coach Mike Budenholzer praised Durant’s dedication and work ethic, acknowledging the effort and precision that have translated into such an extraordinary accomplishment.
Kevin Durant (NBA)Durant has been an elite scorer throughout his career, averaging at least 20 points per game in every season. This season, he maintains a strong 27.1 points per game on 52.8% shooting. Over the years, Durant has accumulated points across multiple teams, starting with the Oklahoma City Thunder (formerly the Seattle SuperSonics), where he scored 17,566 points.
He then added 5,374 points with the Golden State Warriors, 3,744 with the Brooklyn Nets, and 3,324 with the Phoenix Suns. His career total now stands at 30,008 points and counting, solidifying his status as one of the game’s most prolific scorers.
Durant’s Unique Scoring Ability
Since entering the NBA as the No. 2 pick in 2007, Durant has been a dominant offensive force, winning four scoring titles—third only to Jordan and Chamberlain. His ability to score from anywhere on the court sets him apart, as his shot chart displays an even distribution of baskets with little to no weak spots.
His height (6-foot-11) combined with guard-like ball-handling and elite shooting ability allows him to dominate at all three levels: inside, mid-range, and beyond the arc. Even in today’s era of versatile big men, Durant remains unmatched in his scoring efficiency and versatility.
Durant’s Instagram handle, @EasyMoneySniper, perfectly encapsulates his effortless scoring ability. His smooth shot mechanics, combined with his athleticism, allow him to score with ease. Unlike traditional three-point specialists, Durant’s scoring is spread evenly across the floor, with the exception of the corner three-pointer—a shot more commonly utilized by role players. Instead, Durant thrives in all areas, demonstrating why he is considered one of the most complete scorers in basketball history. As he continues to add to his point total, he further solidifies his place among the NBA’s all-time greats.