Who Has the Most Points in the NBA? All-Time Scoring List

May 2024 · 14 minute read

When it comes to the highest points in NBA history, there is one player who stands above the rest. LeBron James, the legendary basketball superstar, has etched his name in the record books as the NBA’s all-time leading scorer. With a total of 39,704 career regular season points, and counting, James has surpassed every milestone and set new records along the way.

who has the most points in the nba

LeBron James achieved this remarkable feat on January 27, 2024, solidifying his position as the top scoring player in the NBA. Not only is he the highest career points scorer, but he is also the youngest player to reach every career point milestone, from 1,000 to an unprecedented 39,000.

Key Takeaways:

LeBron James: The NBA’s All-Time Leading Scorer

LeBron James has etched his name in NBA history as the league’s all-time leading scorer. On February 7, 2023, during a game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, James surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s long-standing record of 38,387 career points. Since then, he has continued to add to his scoring record, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest players to ever grace the court.

As of January 27, 2024, LeBron James has amassed an impressive 39,704 career regular season points, setting the bar high for future generations. His scoring prowess, combined with his exceptional skills and basketball IQ, has made him a force to be reckoned with on the court.

LeBron James’ journey to becoming the NBA’s all-time leading scorer is a testament to his unmatched consistency and longevity in the game. Throughout his illustrious career, he has achieved numerous milestones and shattered records, cementing his place among basketball’s elite.

Stay tuned to discover other notable players in NBA scoring history as we delve deeper into the all-time scoring list.

Other Notable Players in NBA Scoring History

While LeBron James currently reigns as the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, there have been several other notable players in NBA scoring history. Let’s take a look at some of them:

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is the second-highest scorer in NBA history, with 38,387 career points. Known for his unstoppable skyhook shot, Abdul-Jabbar played for the Milwaukee Bucks and the Los Angeles Lakers during his illustrious career.

Karl Malone

Karl Malone, also known as “The Mailman,” scored a total of 36,928 points throughout his NBA career. Playing for the Utah Jazz and the Los Angeles Lakers, Malone was a dominant force on the court and one of the greatest power forwards of all time.

Kobe Bryant

Kobe Bryant, a legendary shooting guard for the Los Angeles Lakers, amassed 33,643 points during his career. Known for his scoring prowess and competitive spirit, Bryant left a lasting impact on the game and is considered one of the greatest players in NBA history.

Michael Jordan

Michael Jordan, widely regarded as the greatest basketball player of all time, scored 32,293 points throughout his career. His scoring ability, athleticism, and clutch performances cemented his legacy as one of the most iconic figures in NBA history.

These players, alongside LeBron James, have etched their names in NBA scoring history, showcasing their incredible talents and leaving a lasting impact on the sport.

NBA Legends

PlayerCareer Points
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar38,387
Karl Malone36,928
Kobe Bryant33,643
Michael Jordan32,293

LeBron James’ Career Accomplishments

In addition to being the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, LeBron James has achieved numerous other accomplishments throughout his career. He has won four NBA championships, earning Finals MVP honors in each of those championship seasons. James has also been named the NBA MVP four times and has been selected to the All-Star team 18 times. His versatility and impact on the game have solidified his status as one of the greatest players in basketball history.

“I have failed over and over and over again in my life. And that’s why I succeed.” – LeBron James

LeBron James’ impact on the court goes beyond just scoring. His leadership, basketball IQ, and ability to elevate his teammates have contributed to his team’s success. James’ approach to the game and his dedication to his craft have earned him the respect of fans, players, and coaches alike.

LeBron James’ Career Achievements:

LeBron James’ impact on the game of basketball extends far beyond his individual achievements. His contributions to charity, social justice issues, and his role as a mentor to young players have earned him admiration both on and off the court.

LeBron James' Career Accomplishments

AccomplishmentNumber
NBA Championships4
NBA MVP Awards4
All-Star Selections18
NBA Finals MVP Awards4

NBA’s All-Time Scoring List: Progressive Increases

The NBA’s all-time scoring list has witnessed a steady progression over the years, with players continuously pushing the boundaries and setting new scoring records. From the league’s inaugural season in 1946 to the present day, the all-time scoring list has seen remarkable achievements and milestones.

Joe Fulks held the scoring record during the league’s early years, but in 1952, George Mikan surpassed him, setting the stage for future players to carve their names in basketball history. In subsequent years, the torch was passed from one player to another as numerous scoring legends left their mark on the record books.

“I always played to win, and eventually, the points just piled up.”
– George Mikan

Players like Ed Macauley, Dolph Schayes, and Bob Pettit etched their names on the scoring list, leaving a lasting impact on basketball lore. But it was Wilt Chamberlain, a towering figure on the court, who elevated the record to new heights. Chamberlain’s scoring prowess enabled him to reach milestones such as 25,000 and 30,000 career points, setting a new standard for excellence.

“Scoring records are made to be broken, and I’m proud to have been a part of the evolution of the game.” – Wilt Chamberlain

Fast forward to the present day, and we find LeBron James ascending to the top of the scoring list, cementing his place among the greatest scorers in NBA history. LeBron’s longevity, consistent scoring ability, and tireless work ethic have propelled him to the pinnacle of basketball’s all-time scoring elite.

LeBron James’ journey to the top emphasizes the progressive increases in scoring that have shaped the NBA’s all-time scoring list. It is a testament to the evolution of the game and the enduring pursuit of greatness by the players who have left an indelible mark on the sport.

NBA's All-Time Scoring List

Notable Players on the NBA’s All-Time Scoring List:

PlayerTotal Points
LeBron James39,704
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar38,387
Karl Malone36,928
Kobe Bryant33,643
Michael Jordan32,293

LeBron James’ Playoff Scoring Record

In addition to his regular season scoring record, LeBron James holds the record for the most playoff points in NBA history. His postseason scoring prowess is a testament to his exceptional performance under heightened pressure.

During the 2023 NBA Western Conference Final series against the Denver Nuggets, LeBron James reached a significant milestone by scoring his 8,023rd playoff point. This impressive feat further solidified his status as one of the greatest players in basketball history.

Combining his regular season and playoff performance, LeBron James has amassed a staggering 46,675 career points. His ability to consistently deliver outstanding performances in both the regular season and playoffs is a testament to his unwavering talent and dedication to the game.

Michael Jordan, a legendary player in his own right, is the runner-up on the playoff scoring list with 5,987 points. LeBron James’ record-breaking playoff scoring achievements place him in a league of his own, showcasing his incredible impact on the game and cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players of all time.

LeBron James Playoff Scoring Record

Milestones:

NBA Players with 60+ Point Games

Throughout NBA history, there have been several awe-inspiring individual scoring performances, with players reaching the remarkable milestone of scoring 60 or more points in a single game. These standout performances are a testament to the incredible talent and scoring ability of these NBA players.

The record for the most 60+ point games in NBA history belongs to the legendary Wilt Chamberlain, who achieved this astounding feat an incredible 32 times. His dominance in scoring is unparalleled, and his record still stands to this day.

Kobe Bryant, one of the greatest scorers in NBA history, had six games where he scored 60 or more points. His lethal scoring ability and determination to win made him a force to be reckoned with on the court.

Another player known for his scoring prowess, Damian Lillard, has had five games with 60 or more points. His ability to take over games and hit clutch shots has solidified him as one of the premier scorers in the league.

Michael Jordan and James Harden each have four games with 60 or more points. Jordan, widely regarded as the greatest basketball player of all time, showcased his scoring prowess on numerous occasions throughout his career. Harden, known for his scoring ability and unique playing style, has also had his fair share of explosive scoring performances.

Other notable players who have achieved the remarkable feat of scoring 60 or more points in a single game include Elgin Baylor, Karl-Anthony Towns, Devin Booker, and Luka Don?i?. These players have showcased their extraordinary scoring abilities and left basketball fans in awe of their talent.

PlayerNumber of 60+ Point Games
Wilt Chamberlain32
Kobe Bryant6
Damian Lillard5
Michael Jordan4
James Harden4
Elgin Baylor1
Karl-Anthony Towns1
Devin Booker1
Luka Don?i?1

These exceptional individual scoring performances remind us of the mesmerizing talent and skill possessed by NBA players, and they continue to captivate fans around the world. Each game becomes an opportunity to witness history being made and witness the limits of human scoring potential.

NBA Players with 60+ Point Games

Notable Single-Game Scoring Records

When it comes to single-game scoring records in the NBA, a few legendary players have etched their names in history. Let’s take a closer look at some of these remarkable performances.

Wilt Chamberlain’s 100-Point Game

single-game scoring records

Wilt Chamberlain holds the top spot for the most points scored by a single player in a game. On March 2, 1962, Chamberlain accomplished a jaw-dropping feat, scoring an astonishing 100 points in a game. This record remains unmatched to this day and solidifies Chamberlain’s place as one of the greatest scorers in NBA history.

Kobe Bryant’s 81-Point Game

Kobe Bryant, a legendary figure in his own right, delivered a mesmerizing performance on January 22, 2006. During a game against the Toronto Raptors, Bryant dropped an incredible 81 points, the second-highest single-game scoring record in NBA history. This historic display of scoring prowess showcased Bryant’s unparalleled offensive skills and secured his legacy as one of the game’s all-time greats.

“I couldn’t even dream of this when I was a kid. There’s just no way possible. It’s just a blessing from above to be able to play this game, have the opportunity to be healthy, and to have something like this happen. It’s just mind-boggling.” – Kobe Bryant

Other Noteworthy Performances

While Chamberlain and Bryant hold the top spots, other players have had extraordinary scoring outbursts that deserve recognition. Elgin Baylor, a true scoring machine, achieved a career-high of 71 points in a game. Michael Jordan, known for his scoring prowess, had a memorable performance with 69 points. Additionally, David Thompson showcased his offensive skills with a 73-point game.

PlayerPoints
Wilt Chamberlain100
Kobe Bryant81
Elgin Baylor71
Michael Jordan69
David Thompson73

These unforgettable performances not only showcase the individual brilliance of these players but also provide lasting moments in NBA history that fans will cherish forever.

LeBron James’ Career Achievements and Stats

LeBron James’ illustrious career is defined by a multitude of achievements and jaw-dropping statistics. Let’s take a closer look at the milestones and accolades that have shaped his legacy.

Accomplishments

Statistical Marvel

LeBron James stands as a statistical marvel, often rewriting the record books with his extraordinary numbers:

In every facet of his game, LeBron James has consistently demonstrated his greatness as one of the most dominant and accomplished players in NBA history.

LeBron James

LeBron James Career Achievements and Statistics:

AccomplishmentDetails
NBA Rookie of the Year2004
NBA Champion2012, 2013, 2016, 2020
NBA Finals MVP2012, 2013, 2016, 2020
NBA All-Star Selection18 times
Olympic Gold MedalistThree-time gold medalist

Conclusion

LeBron James’ exceptional basketball career and outstanding scoring abilities have solidified his position as one of the greatest players in NBA history. As the all-time leading scorer, James has etched his name in the record books, surpassing legends like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Karl Malone, Kobe Bryant, and Michael Jordan. His remarkable versatility, remarkable longevity, and consistent scoring prowess have set him apart.

Not only has LeBron James accumulated the highest number of points in NBA history, but he has also achieved numerous accolades and recognition. With four NBA championships, four MVP awards, and 18 All-Star selections, James has proven himself to be a dominant force on the court. His impact on the game extends beyond scoring, as he has showcased remarkable leadership and an ability to uplift his teammates.

LeBron James’ legacy has left an indelible mark on the sport of basketball. His skills, determination, and passion have inspired a new generation of players and fans alike. With a combination of stellar performances, relentless work ethic, and remarkable achievements, James has solidified his place as one of the greatest NBA players to ever grace the court. His accomplishments, both on and off the court, will undoubtedly be celebrated for years to come.

FAQ

Who has the most points in the NBA?

LeBron James is the all-time leading scorer in NBA history.

What is LeBron James’ scoring record?

LeBron James has scored a total of 39,704 points as of January 27, 2024.

Who are some other notable players in NBA scoring history?

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Karl Malone, Kobe Bryant, and Michael Jordan are notable players on the all-time scoring list.

What are some of LeBron James’ career accomplishments?

LeBron James has won four NBA championships, has been named NBA MVP four times, and has been selected to the All-Star team 18 times.

How has the NBA’s all-time scoring list progressed over the years?

The scoring record has increased over time, with players like Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and LeBron James setting new milestones.

Does LeBron James hold any playoff scoring records?

Yes, LeBron James holds the record for the most playoff points in NBA history with 8,023 points.

Which NBA players have scored 60 or more points in a single game?

Wilt Chamberlain, Kobe Bryant, Damian Lillard, Michael Jordan, and James Harden are among the players who have achieved this feat.

What are some notable single-game scoring records in the NBA?

Wilt Chamberlain holds the record for the highest single-game scoring performance with 100 points in a game.

What are some of LeBron James’ career achievements and stats?

LeBron James has won NBA Rookie of the Year, four NBA championships, and has recorded at least 10,000 rebounds and 10,000 assists.

What is LeBron James’ legacy in the NBA?

LeBron James’ scoring records and numerous accolades solidify his status as one of the greatest players in NBA history.

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