Malone, Second Place on NBA Scoring List
S A L T L A K E C I T Y, Dec. 6 -- Karl Malone found it easier to look aheadthan behind after a historic night.
“It’s been a great journey, but I’m not done,” Malone said. “Don’t write my obituary yet. I’m going to continue to try and play. Hopefully, I can help us win and get to the next level. I have one other goal in mind now [winning an NBA title].”
Malone moved past Chamberlain for second place on the NBA’scareer scoring list Tuesday night, hitting a scoop shot with 4:58remaining in the second quarter of Utah’s 98-84 victory over theToronto Raptors.
Two Years on Chamberlain
Malone finished with 31 points, giving him 31,443 in his 16-yearcareer. Chamberlain scored 31,419 in 14 seasons. KareemAbdul-Jabbar is the league’s career leader with 38,387.
“To be able to play every game with guys who believed in me,that’s what really means a lot,” Malone said. “That, and thepeople here in Utah have accepted me, the good with the bad.”
The most prolific power forward in NBA history, Malone went intothe game needing eight points to pass Chamberlain. In recent days,Malone has spoken repeatedly of his admiration for the man.
“Wilt Chamberlain was a pioneer in this league, a guy I havegreat respect for,” Malone said. “I didn’t sleep at all today. I had the worst nap ever.”
The Mailman added 12 rebounds and three blocked shots, and theonly lowlight came when he was ejected with less than a minute toplay after getting his second technical for arguing with refereeMarc Davis.
Even then, Malone received a standing ovation.
“My biggest fear was that I would get the record, but wewouldn’t win,” Malone said.
Jazz coach Jerry Sloan praised Malone’s durability anddedication. He recalled being impressed by Malone’s work ethic as a rookie, but questioned whether it would wear off as he became aveteran.
“How long is going to be before you change, quit going topractice or start showing up late?” Sloan asked.
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