Brooklyn Nets star Kevin Durant has made history at the Tokyo Olympics, becoming the all-time leading scorer for Team USA in Olympic competition. Durant's 3-pointer in the semifinals against Australia pushed him past the previous record holder, Lisa Leslie, a three-time Olympic gold medalist.
Kevin Durant's Olympic journey has been nothing short of remarkable. From his debut in Beijing in 2008 to his current dominance in Tokyo, Durant has consistently showcased his exceptional talent and unwavering dedication to the sport.
In his Olympic debut, Durant averaged 15.8 points per game, helping the United States capture the gold medal. He continued to shine in London 2012, averaging 19.5 points and earning another gold. However, it was at the 2016 Rio Games that Durant truly cemented his status as an Olympic legend.
Durant Soars Past Leslie, Etches Name in Olympic History
As the centerpiece of a dominant Team USA, Durant averaged 24.3 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 3.7 assists, leading the team to its third consecutive gold medal. Durant's performances in Rio showcased his versatility, as he could score from anywhere on the court and impact the game in multiple ways.
Entering the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Durant was just 14 points away from surpassing Lisa Leslie's Olympic scoring record. Despite facing a talented Australian team in the semifinals, Durant wasted no time etching his name in the history books.
In the second quarter, Durant drained a 3-pointer that pushed him past Leslie's mark. The crowd erupted in cheers, recognizing the significance of the moment. Durant finished the game with 23 points, leading Team USA to a 97-78 victory and securing a spot in the gold medal game.
With his record-breaking performance, Kevin Durant has solidified his place among the greatest Olympic basketball players of all time. He joins an exclusive club that includes the likes of Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Larry Bird.
Durant's achievements are a testament to his skill, determination, and passion for the game. He has not only established himself as a scoring machine but also as a complete player who can contribute in all aspects of the game.
As Team USA aims to win its fourth consecutive gold medal in Tokyo, Durant's leadership and scoring prowess will be crucial. With his historic achievement fresh in mind, Durant is poised to lead the team to another Olympic triumph and further etch his name into the annals of Olympic greatness.
