NBA stars with four or more 50-point games in a season

Scoring 50 or more points in a single NBA game is a remarkable achievement that not only highlights a player’s offensive prowess but also cements their legacy in the annals of basketball history. Throughout the years, the NBA has witnessed a select group of players consistently reaching this milestone, dazzling fans with unforgettable performances. This article explores the prolific scorers who have etched their names among the league’s elite through their extraordinary 50-point games. Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander just joined the group of 12 who’ve had four or more 50-plus-point games in a single season. It’s an impressive list. We’ll start with Shai, who’s done it for the first time and then we’ll go along with players who’ve accomplished the feat one season (the numbers will be in parentheses) and then finish with those who’ve done it multiple seasons and end with Wilt’s ridiculous record.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (1)

One of the frontrunners to be this season’s league MVP, Gilgeous-Alexander recorded his fourth 50-plus-point game of the season on March 3. And with 21 games still to go, this kid (he’s just 26), will likely get another 50 cent to add to his resume.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (1)

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, once the NBA’s all-time leading scorer — before LeBron — achieved 10 career 50-point games. His highest score was 55 points. Notably, all these high-scoring games occurred during his time with the Milwaukee Bucks, showcasing his dominance in the league during that period.

Rick Barry (1)

Rick Barry was a prolific scorer known for his unique underhand free throw technique. He achieved several 50-point games throughout his career, showcasing his versatility as a scorer. Barry’s unorthodox style often sparked curiosity, but his results were undeniable, earning him a place among basketball’s greatest scorers.

Pete Maravich (1)

He was named an All-Star five times and was named to four All-NBA Teams during his professional career. Maravich was considered to be one of the greatest creative offensive talents ever and one of the best ball handlers of all time.

Russell Westbrook (1)

Damian Lillard (1)

Damian Lillard is renowned for his clutch performances, having achieved 50-point games 17 times in his career — but, again, remember we’re talking the most 50-plus-point games in a single regular season; not all-time. His highest-scoring game was 71 points against the Rockets in the 2022-23 season. Lillard, now in his 13th season, still has the ability to score big and has been consistent throughout his career with the Portland Trail Blazers and Milwaukee Bucks.

Luka Doncic (1)

The latest superstar for the Los Angeles Lakers — you’ll read about a few more others here shortly — Doncic had some incredible seasons in Dallas and it remains a mystery to most why the Mavericks traded him to L.A. Big mistake. Huge.

Kobe Bryant (2)

Kobe Bryant’s competitive drive led to numerous high-scoring games, including 25 50-point performances in his career. His most notable game was an 81-point outing against the Toronto Raptors in 2006. Bryant’s ability to dominate games showcased his exceptional skill and dedication to excellence.

Elgin Baylor (3)

A dominant scorer in his era, Elgin Baylor achieved several 50-point games. He was renowned for his acrobatic style and scoring prowess, setting multiple records during his career. Baylor’s performances remain iconic, even though detailed records of all his 50-point games are not as readily available today.

James Harden (3)

James Harden is one of the top scorers in the NBA, with 23 career 50-point games. His best season was 2018-19, when he achieved nine such games. Harden’s scoring prowess has consistently placed him among the league’s elite, though he hasn’t had a 50-point game since leaving the Rockets.

Michael Jordan (4)

Michael Jordan is renowned for his incredible scoring ability, achieving 50 or more points in a game 39 times throughout his career. This includes 31 regular-season games and 8 playoff games, showcasing his consistent dominance on the court.

Wilt Chamberlain

Wilt Chamberlain is renowned for his scoring prowess, holding the record for most 50-point games in a season with 45 in 1961-62. He also leads in career 50-point games with 118, showcasing his enduring dominance in NBA history.

Conclusion

The ability to consistently score 50 or more points in an NBA game is a testament to a player’s skill, athleticism, and competitive drive. From veterans like Wilt Chamberlain and Michael Jordan to modern-day legends and future Hall of Famers such as Damian Lillard and Luka Doncic, these players have not only changed the way the game is played but have also inspired countless fans and future athletes. As we reflect on their incredible performances, we celebrate the impact these athletes have had on the sport and look forward to witnessing the next generation of basketball stars achieving similar heights.