On February 11, 2025, during a game between the Memphis Grizzlies and the Phoenix Suns, Kevin Durant reached an extraordinary milestone by scoring his 30,000th career point, becoming the eighth player in <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA history to do so. Following the game, which ended in a 119-112 victory for the Grizzlies, Ja Morant paid tribute to Durant’s accomplishment by presenting him with the game ball as a sign of respect.
A Closer Look at Durant’s Career and Recent Season Performance
Kevin Durant concluded his final season with the Suns averaging 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.2 blocks per game, while shooting an impressive 52.7% from the field and 43.0% on three-pointers across 62 contests. After the season, the 2014 NBA Most Valuable Player was traded to the Houston Rockets.
Durant’s career has also included stints with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Golden State Warriors, and Brooklyn Nets. Over the years, he has secured two NBA championships and consistently averaged at least 25 points per game after his rookie season. His efficiency on the court remains remarkable, demonstrated by his high shooting percentages even as he enters his 18th season.
Morant’s Respectful Gesture Reflects Durant’s Impact on the League
Ja Morant expressed admiration for Durant’s place among basketball’s elite, emphasizing the rarity of reaching 30,000 career points. Morant said,
“He one of the greats. That’s why I honored him with the ball… Hats off to him and I hope he keep going, we want to see him out here.”
He further noted,
“I honored him with the ball… Everybody don’t get 30K in this league.”
—Ja Morant, Memphis Grizzlies
This gesture symbolizes the respect younger stars have for veterans like Durant, underlining the significance of such milestones in NBA history.
The Importance of Durant’s Milestone and What It Means Going Forward
Reaching 30,000 points cements Kevin Durant’s legacy as one of the all-time great scorers in the NBA. This achievement is a testament to his sustained excellence over nearly two decades. As Durant continues his career with the Houston Rockets, fans and players alike are watching to see how he will add to this historic legacy while maintaining his exceptional level of performance on the court.