Russell Westbrook Surpasses Oscar Robertson’s Scoring Record
In a milestone achievement for his career, Russell Westbrook has etched his name further into the annals of NBA history. During a game on January 3, 2026, Westbrook accomplished the remarkable feat of surpassing Oscar Robertson’s long-standing record for the highest career points by a point guard. With a total of 26,711 points, Westbrook now leads the category, having previously trailed Robertson, who ended his career with 26,710 points.
Game Highlights and Team Recognition
Westbrook’s game against the Phoenix Suns, which resulted in a 129-102 defeat for the Sacramento Kings, saw him contribute 17 points, shooting 50% from the floor (6-of-12), alongside 9 rebounds, 6 assists, and 4 turnovers. Celebrating his accomplishment on social media, the Sacramento Kings congratulated their guard, dubbing him the new all-time leading scorer among point guards.
Westbrook’s Impressive Resume
This achievement adds to Westbrook’s already impressive resume, which includes holding the record for the most triple-doubles in NBA history and ranking first among guards for rebounds. He is also currently seventh in all-time assists but looks poised to climb further up the leaderboard as the season progresses, with the potential to surpass legends like Mark Jackson and Steve Nash.
Context of the Scoring Record
While Westbrook’s scoring record does set him apart, it’s important to note that only three of the 14 players above him in overall scoring—Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, and James Harden—are guards. Both Bryant and Jordan are celebrated as elite shooting guards, while Harden has often played a hybrid role within the league.
Westbrook’s Current Role and Performance
Since departing the Oklahoma City Thunder, Westbrook has taken on the role of a veteran presence, recently signing a one-year, $3.6 million deal with the Kings. Despite facing a dip in shooting accuracy with a career-low 42.3% from the field, he has managed to maintain his scoring prowess, averaging 14.4 points per game, marking his highest performance since the 2022-23 season. Notably, he has also achieved a career-best 35.3% success rate from beyond the arc this season.
Historical Significance of the Night
Adding to the night’s historical significance, Giannis Antetokounmpo concurrently surpassed Oscar Robertson’s record for the most games scoring 30 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists, further highlighting the shifting dynamics and records in the NBA today. As the league continues to evolve, Westbrook’s latest milestone marks an important chapter in his storied career and the ongoing narrative of basketball legends.
