During the quarterfinal game against Brazil, Kevin Durant made history by becoming the all-time leading scorer for the U.S. in Olympic basketball. His basket in the third quarter marked his 489th point in four Olympic appearances, surpassing the previous record held by Lisa Leslie at 488 points. Durant's total now stands at 494 points and is expected to increase as the competition progresses.
Durant, a four-time Olympian, expressed humility in breaking the record, acknowledging that records are meant to be surpassed. His focus remains on winning the gold medal, aiming to become the first men's player in Olympic history to achieve four golds, having previously won titles in London 2012, Rio de Janeiro 2016, and the Tokyo Games.
Attributing his longevity to diligent training and maintaining his physical condition, Durant emphasized the importance of staying dedicated to his craft. With an impressive NBA career as the 8th all-time leading scorer, Durant's achievements on the Olympic stage further solidify his status as one of the game's greats.
Notably, Durant's record-breaking performance places him among an elite group of U.S. players with over 300 points in Olympic competition, including basketball legends like Diana Taurasi, Carmelo Anthony, and LeBron James. His efficiency and skill have earned him praise from teammates and opponents alike, with Devin Booker highlighting Durant's impact on the game.
In addition to his scoring prowess, Durant also holds the U.S. career men's rebounding record in Olympic play, further showcasing his versatility and dominance on the court. As Durant continues to excel in the Olympics, his legacy as a basketball icon continues to grow, solidifying his place in the annals of the sport.
For more updates on the Summer Olympics, visit AP Summer Olympics.
