Durant Surpasses Nowitzki in All-Time NBA Scoring as Rockets Overcome Pelicans 119-110

Key Takeaways:

• Kevin Durant advanced to sixth on the NBA’s all-time scoring chart with 31,562 points
• Jabari Smith Jr. delivered a season-high 32 points, including a career-best seven three-pointers, to help the Houston Rockets defeat the New Orleans Pelicans 119-110
• Steven Adams exited the game in the fourth quarter due to a left ankle injury, having contributed 10 rebounds and five points

Record-Breaking Night for Durant

Kevin Durant etched his name further into NBA history on Sunday night in Houston, securing sixth place on the league’s career scoring list. Entering the contest needing only one point to overtake Hall of Famer Dirk Nowitzki’s total of 31,560, Durant reached the milestone with a pair of free throws with just 15.2 seconds remaining. The achievement was met with a standing ovation from the home supporters. Durant’s new career tally stands at 31,562 points, positioning him just behind Michael Jordan, who is fifth all-time with 32,292 points. Upon conclusion of the match, a congratulatory video from Dirk Nowitzki was shown on the jumbotron in honour of Durant’s feat.

For the city 🤘#AllFire pic.twitter.com/gcDCm2S0oz

— Houston Rockets (@HoustonRockets) January 19, 2026

Rockets Clinch Victory Behind Smith’s Sharp Shooting

The Houston Rockets secured a 119-110 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans, powered by a standout performance from Jabari Smith Jr., who notched a season-high 32 points. Smith, rebounding from a difficult 3-for-12 shooting night against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday, was unstoppable from deep, sinking a career-high seven three-pointers on 11-for-21 shooting. Alperen Sengun contributed 21 points and eight rebounds, while Amen Thompson added 20 points as Houston recorded its third win in four outings.

Pelicans Struggles Continue

For the Pelicans, Trey Murphy III led the scoring with 21 points on 7-for-15 shooting. Zion Williamson supplemented with 20 points and grabbed six rebounds, and Derik Queen added 15 points. However, New Orleans’ poor run of form persisted, with the side losing for the fourth time in five games and registering their thirteenth defeat in the past fifteen matches.

Adams’ Injury Adds to Rockets’ Concerns

Houston’s Steven Adams was forced to leave the game early in the fourth quarter after sustaining a left ankle injury. Adams, who previously missed games earlier in the season due to an issue with his right ankle, had amassed 10 rebounds and five points before being assisted off the court with under 10 minutes remaining.

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