Scoring is a crucial aspect of basketball, and throughout NBA history, several players have distinguished themselves by accumulating impressive point totals.
List of 10 Players with Most Points in NBA all Time
10. Carmelo Anthony
Carmelo Anthony was renowned for his exceptional scoring ability, particularly his smooth jump shots and versatility on the offensive end. Throughout his career, he played for several teams, including the Denver Nuggets and the New York Knicks, consistently serving as a primary scoring option. Anthony concluded his NBA tenure with a total of 28,289 points, securing the 10th spot on the Most Points in NBA All Time list.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Points | 28,289 |
| Games Played | 1,260 |
| Points Per Game | 22.5 |
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9. Shaquille O’Neal
Shaquille O’Neal, often referred to as “Shaq,” was one of the most dominant centers in NBA history. His combination of size, strength, and agility made him a formidable presence in the paint. Over his career, O’Neal amassed 28,596 points, placing him ninth on the Most Points in NBA All Time list.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Points | 28,596 |
| Games Played | 1,207 |
| Points Per Game | 23.7 |
8. Kevin Durant
Kevin Durant is celebrated for his scoring prowess, characterized by his smooth shooting stroke and ability to score from virtually any spot on the court. As of February 2025, Durant has accumulated 29,974 points, ranking him eighth on the Most Points in NBA All Time list. Given that he is still an active player, there is potential for him to climb higher in these rankings.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Points | 29,974 |
| Games Played | 1,072 |
| Points Per Game | 28.0 |
7. Wilt Chamberlain
Wilt Chamberlain was a scoring machine, known for his incredible feats on the basketball court. He holds the record for the most points scored in a single NBA game, with 100 points. Throughout his career, Chamberlain accumulated 31,419 points, placing him seventh on the Most Points in NBA All Time list.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Points | 31,419 |
| Games Played | 1,045 |
| Points Per Game | 30.1 |
6. Dirk Nowitzki
Dirk Nowitzki revolutionized the power forward position with his unique skill set, particularly his ability to shoot from long range. He spent his entire 21-season NBA career with the Dallas Mavericks, becoming a cornerstone of the franchise. Nowitzki retired with 31,560 points, securing the sixth spot on the Most Points in NBA All Time list.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Points | 31,560 |
| Games Played | 1,522 |
| Points Per Game | 20.7 |
5. Michael Jordan
Michael Jordan is widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time. His scoring ability, competitive drive, and clutch performances made him a global icon. Jordan concluded his NBA career with 32,292 points, placing him fifth on the Most Points in NBA All Time list.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Points | 32,292 |
| Games Played | 1,072 |
| Points Per Game | 30.1 |
4. Kobe Bryant
Kobe Bryant was known for his scoring ability and killer instinct. He spent his entire 20-season career with the Los Angeles Lakers, becoming a central figure in the franchise’s history. Bryant retired with 33,643 points, placing him fourth on the Most Points in NBA All Time list.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Points | 33,643 |
| Games Played | 1,346 |
| Points Per Game | 25.0 |
3. Karl Malone
Karl Malone, nicknamed “The Mailman,” was a model of consistency throughout his NBA career. Playing primarily for the Utah Jazz, Malone’s scoring ability and durability allowed him to accumulate 36,928 points, ranking him third on the Most Points in NBA All Time list.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Points | 36,928 |
| Games Played | 1,476 |
| Points Per Game | 25.0 |
2. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar held the NBA’s all-time scoring record for decades, thanks in part to his signature “skyhook” shot. Over a 20-year career with the Milwaukee Bucks and the Los Angeles Lakers, Abdul-Jabbar amassed 38,387 points, placing him second on the Most Points in NBA All Time list.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Points | 38,387 |
| Games Played | 1,560 |
| Points Per Game | 24.6 |
1. LeBron James
LeBron James currently holds the top spot for the Most Points in NBA All Time. His versatility, longevity, and consistent high-level performance have enabled him to surpass previous records. As of February 2025, James has accumulated 41,531 points, solidifying his position as the NBA’s all-time leading scorer.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Points | 41,531 |
| Games Played | 1,536 |
| Points Per Game | 27.0 |
Conclusion
These players have left an indelible mark on the NBA through their scoring achievements. Whether through dominance in the paint, elite shooting, or consistency over decades, each has earned their place on the Most Points in NBA All Time list. With active players like Kevin Durant still climbing the rankings, the future may see even more movement in this prestigious list.
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