Kevin Durant of the Phoenix Suns, though lost to the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday night, made a historic win. The Suns pushed with all their might to take the Lakers head-on but lost in a 100-95 scuffle. It could be that the Lakers had a bad opening night and all that pent-up aggression and energy was concentrated here.

Either way, the Lakers got their first win in their second game. And the Suns couldn’t be more proud of KD. Scoring a game-high 39 points, Durant passed Hakeem Olajuwon for the 12th position on the all-time scoring list. In the post-game conference, KD opens up about how the Rockets legend has proved to be a source of inspiration for him.

Kevin Durant talks about Olajuwon’s part in his skill set

Hakeem Olajuwon, one of the greatest basketball centers is now in the 13th position on the all-time scoring list. Kevin Durant, on his ambitious drive to the basket, not only overthrew Reaves, he also managed to surpass Olajuwon. Talking to the media, he says how the Rockets legend has helped develop his many skills. “He was ahead of his time … one of those lifetime players that are, that always leave his mark regardless of the generation.”

Soon after his latest achievement, the Suns’ official Twitter page posted a congratulatory message for Durant.

Going back to what KD said about some skills he picked up from Olajuwon, it includes his skills around the rim, spin shots and being able to guard multiple positions. Hakeem Olajuwon, if anything, was known for his elite footwork and making smooth shots over the defenders.

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Olajuwon’s feats are stuff of the legends. 12x All-Star, 2x champion, and 2x Finals MVP, Hakeem is one of the three players to be named Defensive Player of the Season and MVP in the same year. The other two are Michael Jordan and the Bucks’ very own Giannis.

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He is regarded as one of the best post-up scorers the league has ever seen. As mentioned above, his footwork and his signature move became so effective that it was named after him; the Dream Shake.

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Hailing from Nigeria, Hakeem proved to be a force of nature in America. Even now, many top names visit his ranch to take pointers and pick his brain. So it’s not surprising that Durant also grew up watching, learning and adding his own twist to his skills on the court.