As the 2024 Paris Olympics unfolded, events were a spectacle of fierce competition and groundbreaking achievements. Among these, the USA basketball team continued to stand out with its unmatched strength and winning streak. Their command of the court was clearly demonstrated in this Tuesday’s quarterfinal against Brazil, where they claimed a resounding 122-87 victory. This game was not only another triumph for the US team, but also a historic milestone for Kevin Durant, who eclipsed Lisa Leslie as the all-time leading scorer in US Olympic basketball history.

Kevin Durant was just five points away from surpassing Lisa Leslie’s impressive record of 488 points against Brazil. He effortlessly scored 11 points during the game, bringing his total to 494. This significant milestone garnered much praise, including from Leslie himself and Durant’s teammate on the Suns and national team, Devin Booker.

Kevin Durant breaks Lisa Leslie’s U.S. Olympic points record with praise from Devin Booker

Leslie, the former record holder, was quick to praise Durant’s performance on social media, posting: “So, first of all, let me congratulate @KDTrey5 who is about to break one of my Olympic records! The Slim Reaper!! One of my all-time favorites!”

Booker witnessed the record-breaking performance firsthand and expressed admiration for Kevin Durant’s exceptional status in Olympic annals. “That’s Captain America status. I feel like he holds every Olympic record. Now we have to get him his fourth gold… Now that we’re teammates (on the Suns), I get to see (his hard work) behind the scenes,” Booker noted.

Despite this personal milestone, Kevin Durant remained humble and forward-looking. Known for his dedication and determination, Durant put the team’s greater goal above his personal accolades. “Records are made to be broken. I’m going to hold onto that until another great one comes along and passes me… Lisa Leslie, you are the gold standard in basketball, I appreciate your love and support over the years… lots of love to you, always… it’s all about the golden baby. Let’s get it done, guys,” Durant reflected.

Durant’s legacy grows as he sets record pace at Paris Olympics

Before the Paris Olympics, Kevin Durant already held the record for most points scored in U.S. men’s team history with 435 points. His performance at this year’s Games – he put up 59 points in the first four games, averaging 14.8 points per game and shooting accuracy of 60% – further cements his status as one of the most celebrated Olympic scorers of all time. His previous Olympic performances have been equally impressive, with scoring averages of 20.7 points per game in 2020, 19.5 in 2012 and 19.4 in 2016 – each among the highest ever recorded at the Olympics.

Team USA now has its sights set on the semifinals and prepares to face Nikola Jokic and Team Serbia this Thursday. Kevin Durant will lead the way with the collective talent and synergy of Team USA at his side, setting the stage for another exciting chapter in their quest for an unprecedented fifth consecutive gold medal. Durant’s scoring prowess, combined with Team USA’s strategic depth, promises to pose a formidable challenge for their opponents and promises to captivate basketball fans worldwide.