Kevin Durant and the Memphis Grizzlies have a long, intense history that dates back more than a decade. From the “grit-and-grind” era clashes in Oklahoma City to the present day in Houston, every matchup between Durant and Memphis has carried weight.
On Friday night, that history added another notable chapter. In the Houston Rockets’ 119-109 victory over the Grizzlies, Durant scored 25 points on 8-of-14 shooting and added a game-high 10 assists. More importantly, he moved past LeBron James for third place on the all-time scoring list against the Grizzlies, now with 1,388 career points against Memphis.
Only two legends remain ahead of him: Kobe Bryant (1,636 points) and Dirk Nowitzki (1,481 points).
A Storied Rivalry Across Eras
Mar 27, 2026; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) during the third quarter against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
Durant has faced the Grizzlies more than 50 times in his career, including multiple postseason battles during his Oklahoma City Thunder days.
In 2013, the Thunder ran into a buzzsaw in the Western Conference Semifinals. Memphis took the series in five games, holding Durant to an inefficient 28.8 points per game on 53.1 true shooting. The following year, in the 2014 first round, the two teams went to war in a grueling seven-game series. Durant averaged 29.9 points but shot just 44% from the field, 32.1% from three, and 76.7% from the free-throw line — well below his usual standards.
Across his entire career against Memphis, Durant has posted impressive averages: 27 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 4.2 assists on 49.8% shooting from the field, 35.6% from three, and 87.2% from the line, with a 35-35 record including the playoffs.
This season, the Rockets have already beaten the Grizzlies three times, with Durant playing a major role in each victory. The April 12 regular-season finale will mark the fourth and final meeting between the teams.
What the Milestone Means
Passing LeBron for third on this specific list is a quiet but telling accomplishment. It underscores Durant’s sustained excellence against a tough, physical Western Conference rival over nearly two decades. From the Thunder’s young core years to his current role as a veteran leader and scorer for a Rockets team in championship-or-bust mode, Durant has consistently delivered against Memphis.
The Grizzlies’ physical, defensive-minded style has always tested him, yet he has still managed to produce at an elite level across multiple eras and uniform changes.
Looking Ahead
With one more regular-season meeting on the schedule, Durant has another chance to add to his already impressive ledger against the Grizzlies. For a player who continues to climb all-time scoring lists while adapting his game and role, these kinds of milestones serve as reminders of his longevity and consistency.
The Rockets are pushing for a high seed and home-court advantage in the loaded Western Conference. Durant’s ability to perform against familiar foes like Memphis remains a key part of that effort.
Final Thoughts
Kevin Durant passing LeBron James for third on the all-time scoring list against the Grizzlies is another quiet line on a legendary résumé. It’s a testament to his durability, scoring prowess, and ability to produce against tough competition over nearly 20 years in the league.
While the numbers continue to climb, the respect from peers and the history with teams like the Grizzlies remind us why Durant remains one of the most accomplished and efficient scorers the game has ever seen.
NBA fans, what stands out most to you about Durant’s long history with the Memphis Grizzlies? Do you see him adding significantly more to that list before his career ends, or is this milestone a fitting cap on a long chapter?
The Western Conference race is heating up, and every point — especially against familiar rivals — still matters.