DeMar DeRozan surpasses Tim Duncan on NBA's all-time scoring list

The Sacramento Kings star scored 39 points in a loss to the Charlotte Hornets

Mar. 12, 2026 at 5:38am

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Sacramento Kings veteran DeMar DeRozan continued his climb up the NBA's all-time scoring list, passing former San Antonio Spurs great Tim Duncan for the 18th spot. DeRozan scored 39 points in the Kings' 117-109 loss to the Charlotte Hornets, with a jumper in the third quarter that pushed him past Duncan's career total of 26,496 points.

Why it matters

DeRozan's achievement is a testament to his longevity and scoring prowess, as he continues to cement his legacy as one of the most prolific scorers in NBA history. While the Kings' loss keeps them out of playoff contention, DeRozan's individual accomplishments will be celebrated by fans and the league.

The details

DeRozan entered the game against the Hornets with 26,466 career points, just 30 behind Duncan. He shot an efficient 17-for-22 from the field, including a perfect 5-for-5 from the free-throw line, to finish with 39 points on the night. Unfortunately for DeRozan, his scoring outburst was not enough to lead the Kings to victory, as the Hornets had four players score at least 20 points, led by LaMelo Ball's 24.

  • DeRozan passed Duncan's career scoring total of 26,496 points with a jumper in the third quarter.
  • The game between the Kings and Hornets took place on Wednesday, March 12, 2026.

The players

DeMar DeRozan

A 36-year-old veteran and six-time NBA All-Star who currently plays for the Sacramento Kings. DeRozan is now the 18th all-time leading scorer in NBA history, passing the legendary Tim Duncan.

Tim Duncan

A former San Antonio Spurs superstar big man who is considered one of the greatest power forwards in NBA history. DeRozan's scoring achievement moved him past Duncan on the all-time scoring list.

LaMelo Ball

The star point guard for the Charlotte Hornets, who led his team with 24 points in their victory over the Kings.

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What they’re saying

“26'497…AND COUNTING! 18ᵉ scoreur le plus prolifique, DE L'HISTOIRE 😤”

— 50 Nuances 🇺🇸🏀 (Twitter)

What’s next

DeRozan and the Kings will look to bounce back on Saturday when they take on Kawhi Leonard and the Los Angeles Clippers in Inglewood.

The takeaway

DeMar DeRozan's scoring milestone is a remarkable achievement that solidifies his place among the NBA's all-time greats, even as his team struggles to find success. His relentless pursuit of buckets is a testament to his skill and dedication, and Kings fans will undoubtedly be eager to see what other records he can break as he continues his illustrious career.