In a historic night for basketball, Kevin Durant of the Houston Rockets ascended to the sixth spot on the NBA's all-time scoring list. The milestone was achieved during the Rockets' 119-110 victory over the visiting New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday, January 18, 2026 (Monday, January 19, Philippine Time).
A Historic Night for a Superstar
Kevin Durant officially passed the legendary Dirk Nowitzki on the career scoring chart. The moment came with just over 15 seconds left in the game, as Durant calmly sank two free throws. This moved his career total to 31,562 points, according to an Associated Press report.
The 15-time All-Star, who finished the contest with 18 points, was honored with a standing ovation from the home fans at the Toyota Center. The celebration included a special video message from Nowitzki himself, played on the arena's jumbotron. Durant now sets his sights on the fifth position, currently held by Michael Jordan with 32,292 points.
Rockets' Supporting Cast Shines in Victory
While Durant made history, it was Jabari Smith Jr. who provided the offensive fireworks for Houston. Smith exploded for a season-high 32 points, draining a career-best seven three-pointers in the process. His hot shooting was a key factor in securing the win.
The Rockets also received significant contributions from Alperen Sengun with 21 points and eight rebounds, and Amen Thompson who added 20 points. The victory marked Houston's third win in their last four outings, showing positive momentum.
For the struggling Pelicans, the loss was their 13th in 15 games. Trey Murphy III led the team with 21 points, while star forward Zion Williamson contributed 20 points in the losing effort.
The win was somewhat dampened for Houston by an injury to veteran center Steven Adams. He had to be helped off the court in the fourth quarter after suffering an apparent left ankle injury.
Around the League: Lakers Snap Slump
In other NBA action, the Los Angeles Lakers ended a recent rough patch with a convincing 110-93 win over the Toronto Raptors. Luka Doncic returned from a one-game absence to lead the Lakers with 25 points and seven assists. LeBron James, the 41-year-old icon, added 24 points and seven assists, successfully navigating a demanding schedule of five games in seven days.
Deandre Ayton made a spectacular return from a knee injury, shooting a perfect 10-for-10 from the field to finish with 25 points and 13 rebounds for the Lakers. For the Raptors, Scottie Barnes paced the team with 22 points and nine rebounds.
Other notable results from Sunday included:
- Memphis Grizzlies defeating the Orlando Magic, 126-109.
- Chicago Bulls cruising past the Brooklyn Nets, 124-102.
- Charlotte Hornets pulling off a dominant 110-87 road win at Denver.
- Portland Trail Blazers earning a hard-fought 117-110 triumph at Sacramento.
