Kevin Durant passes Michael Jordan on the NBA all-time scoring list, moving into fifth place during the Houston Rockets’ 123-122 victory over the Miami Heat on March 21, 2026.
Durant scored 27 points in the game, with the milestone coming on a three-pointer from the right corner that pushed his career total to 32,294 points, two ahead of Jordan’s career mark. The home crowd erupted as Durant lifted his arms briefly in triumph after converting the historic basket.
During an on-court interview following the game, Durant was asked if he had a favourite memory of Jordan or a memorable exchange with the Chicago Bulls legend.
“No. That’s like asking me if I have a favourite Drake song,” Durant responded with a smile.
Reflecting on Jordan’s legacy, he added, “No, they’re just all great. MJ has so many great moments. He just personifies iconic god level, just everything that I believe in, he personifies.”
🚨 KD PASSES MJ 🚨
With this three, Kevin Durant passes Michael Jordan for 5th on the all-time SCORING list! pic.twitter.com/byqx3AFLer
— NBA (@NBA) March 22, 2026
Durant entered the fourth quarter with 21 points. With less than five minutes remaining, he hit a three-pointer to inch closer to Jordan’s total. His next shot, another three from nearly the same spot in the right corner, pushed him past the legendary mark.
This achievement caps a remarkable season for the 16-time All-Star. Earlier in the year, Durant surpassed Wilt Chamberlain (31,419 points) and Dirk Nowitzki (31,560 points). Now, with Jordan behind him, he sets his sights on fourth place. Next on the all-time scoring list is Kobe Bryant, who sits in fourth with 33,643 career points.
Durant, the No. 2 overall draft pick in 2007, has built a Hall of Fame-worthy resume. He is a four-time NBA scoring champion, two-time NBA Finals MVP, and two-time NBA champion. He won the league MVP award in the 2013-14 season and has been named to the All-NBA First Team 11 times.
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His Olympic resume includes four gold medals with Team USA, a testament to his sustained excellence on the global stage.
As Durant continues to climb the scoring ranks, the milestone serves as another reminder of his place among basketball’s all-time greats and his appreciation for the icons who paved the way.