### Kevin Durant Surpasses Dirk Nowitzki, Ascending to Sixth on NBA All-Time Scoring List Kevin Durant, the Houston Rockets superstar, achieved a significant milestone on January 19, 2026, by surpassing Dirk Nowitzki to claim the sixth spot on the NBA's all-time scoring list. In a game against the New Orleans Pelicans, Durant scored 18 points, bringing his career total to 31,562 points. This achievement not only highlights Durant's scoring prowess but also marks a poignant moment as he surpasses his idol, Nowitzki, who has been a significant influence in his career. The Rockets won the game 119-110, with Jabari Smith Jr. leading the team with a season-high 32 points, contributing to Houston's third win in four games [https://www.sportworldnews.org/nba/news/27134/kevin-durant-passes-dirk-nowitzki-for-sixth-on-nba-scoring-list][https://apnews.com/article/pelicans-rockets-score-f8e9a7444f75fb252f75d43918b58df2]. ### Breakdown of Durant's Historic Achievement 1. **Milestone Achievement**: - Kevin Durant moved into sixth place on the NBA's all-time scoring list, surpassing Dirk Nowitzki. - This milestone was reached during a game where Durant scored 18 points, contributing to a team victory [https://www.monvalleyindependent.com/2026/01/20/durant-passes-nowitzki-for-6th-on-nba-scoring-list]. 2. **Game Highlights**: - The Houston Rockets defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 119-110. - Jabari Smith Jr. scored a season-high 32 points, while Alperen Sengun and Amen Thompson added 21 and 20 points, respectively [https://www.tsn.ca/nba/article/durant-passes-nowitzki-for-sixth-place-on-nba-career-scoring-list-as-rockets-beat-pelicans]. 3. **Personal Reflection**: - Durant expressed a mix of admiration and nostalgia for Nowitzki, acknowledging the impact he had on his career and the significance of surpassing him [https://www.kvue.com/article/sports/nba/kd-says-he-hated-and-idolized-dirk-nowitzki-after-passing-him-on-all-time-scoring-list/287-acb435d2-13fc-4770-aed9-0730ec5b3666]. 4. **Future Aspirations**: - With this achievement, Durant is now eyeing the next milestone, which is to surpass Michael Jordan, who is currently third on the all-time scoring list [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/kevin_durant_passes_dirk_nowitzki_on_all_time_scoring_list_eyes_michael_jordan_next/s1_17759_43351706]. ### Summary of Kevin Durant's Milestone **Key Findings**: - **Historic Moment**: Kevin Durant's ascension to sixth place on the NBA's all-time scoring list is a testament to his enduring talent and dedication to the game. - **Game Performance**: The Rockets' victory over the Pelicans was marked by strong performances from multiple players, showcasing the team's depth. - **Emotional Significance**: Surpassing Dirk Nowitzki, a player Durant idolized, adds a personal layer to this achievement, reflecting on the journey and influences in his career. - **Looking Ahead**: Durant's focus now shifts to challenging for higher ranks on the scoring list, with aspirations to reach the top three. In conclusion, Kevin Durant's achievement not only cements his legacy in the NBA but also serves as an inspiration for future generations of players. His journey continues as he aims for even greater heights in the sport [https://www.dallasnews.com/sports/mavericks/2026/01/19/kevin-durant-passes-former-mavericks-star-dirk-nowitzki-on-nba-scoring-list].