Rockets' Kevin Durant surpasses Kobe Bryant in 30-point games

The 37-year-old forward now ranks 5th all-time in most 30-point games in a career.

Mar. 3, 2026 at 3:55am

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Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant made NBA history on Saturday by surpassing Kobe Bryant for the 5th most 30-point games in a career. Durant recorded his 432nd career 30-point game in a loss to the Miami Heat, moving past Bryant on the all-time list.

Why it matters

Durant's scoring prowess and efficiency, even late in his 18-year career, have earned him comparisons to all-time greats like Kobe Bryant. This milestone cements Durant's status as one of the most dominant scorers in NBA history.

The details

Durant scored 32 points in the Rockets' 115-105 loss to the Heat, shooting 60% from the field. He led the team in scoring, while rookie Amen Thompson finished second with 20 points. Durant has been averaging over 26 points per game this season while shooting 50.8% from the field and 40.2% from 3-point range.

  • On February 28, 2026, Durant scored his 30th point of the game against the Heat to pass Kobe Bryant.

The players

Kevin Durant

A 37-year-old forward for the Houston Rockets who is in his 18th NBA season. Durant is one of the most prolific scorers in NBA history and has now surpassed Kobe Bryant for the 5th most 30-point games in a career.

Kobe Bryant

A former NBA player who is considered one of the greatest scorers in league history. Bryant previously held the 5th spot for most 30-point games in a career before being surpassed by Kevin Durant.

Amen Thompson

A rookie guard for the Houston Rockets who finished second on the team in scoring with 20 points in the loss to the Heat.

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What they’re saying

“Kevin Durant is the Beyoncé of the offensive end.”

— Kendrick Perkins, NBA analyst

What’s next

The Rockets will face the Washington Wizards on March 2, giving Durant another chance to add to his 30-point game total.

The takeaway

Kevin Durant's historic scoring accomplishments cement his status as one of the most dominant offensive players of his era, joining the ranks of all-time greats like Kobe Bryant. His continued excellence deep into his career is a testament to his unparalleled skill and efficiency as a scorer.