Getting into the history of NBA players who scored a lot of points with zero assists in a single game.
In the tapestry of NBA history, certain performances transcend mere statistics, standing as testaments to individual brilliance. Wilt Chamberlain, an iconic figure, carved his legacy with unparalleled scoring feats, notably achieving remarkable point totals without recording a single assist.
Beyond Chamberlain, we’ll touch upon other luminaries who contributed to this distinctive category, highlighting the diversity of playing styles across different eras. Join us on a journey through these unforgettable moments when NBA legends left an indelible mark by scoring the most points with zero assists.
1. Wilt Chamberlain – 73 Points
Stats: 73 PTS, 36 REB, 48 MIN
Shooting Splits: 29-48 FG (60.4%), 15-25 FT (60.0%)
In the books of NBA history, Wilt Chamberlain’s name stands tall, and his scoring exploits are legendary. One of the most iconic instances of Chamberlain’s dominance occurred on January 13, 1962, when he suited up for the Philadelphia Warriors against the Chicago Packers.
The game showcased Chamberlain’s sheer dominance on the court, as he single-handedly carried the offensive load for his team. The absence of assists in his stat line underscores his focus on scoring, an approach that contributed significantly to the historic 169-147 victory for the Philadelphia Warriors.
Chamberlain’s ability to score with such intensity and efficiency, even without recording a single assist, cements his legacy as one of the greatest scorers the NBA has ever witnessed. His 73-point performance remains etched in the memories of basketball enthusiasts as a testament to individual brilliance and dominance on the hardwood.
2. Joe Fulks – 63 Points
Stats: 63 PTS
Shooting Splits: 27-56 FG (48.2%), 9-14 FT (64.3%)
In the early days of the NBA, when the game was evolving and stars were emerging, one player etched his name into the record books with an extraordinary scoring performance. Joe Fulks, a prominent figure in the league’s formative years, displayed an exceptional ability to score without relying on assists.
The stage was set during the 1948-49 season when Joe Fulks donned the Philadelphia Warriors jersey in a matchup against the Indianapolis Jets. In this particular game, Fulks showcased an impressive scoring display, amassing a staggering 63 points.
In an era where statistics were not as comprehensive as today, Fulks’ scoring achievement speaks volumes about his ability to carry the offensive load for his team.
While the absence of additional stats makes it challenging to delve deeper into the dynamics of the game, Fulks’ feat of scoring 63 points with zero assists underscores his individual scoring dominance during a time when the game was still finding its identity.
3. Carmelo Anthony – 62 Points
Stats: 62 PTS, 13 REB, 39 MIN
Shooting Splits: 23-35 FG (65.7%), 6-11 3PM (54.5%), 10-10 FT (100.0%)
Carmelo Anthony, a prolific scorer in the modern era, left an indelible mark with a remarkable scoring performance during the 2013-14 NBA season. In a game against the Charlotte Bobcats, Anthony showcased his scoring prowess with an astounding 62-point outburst, leaving a lasting impression on the league.
The date was January 24, 2014, and Madison Square Garden played host to a mesmerizing display of offensive excellence by Carmelo. Anthony’s performance was a testament to his scoring versatility, with impressive efficiency from the field, beyond the arc, and at the free-throw line.
Notably, in the midst of his scoring barrage, Anthony did not register a single assist, emphasizing his focus on putting points on the board. The Knicks secured a 125-96 victory, and Anthony’s 62-point game became an iconic moment in his illustrious career.
4. Kobe Bryant – 62 Points
Stats: 62 PTS, 8 REB, 33 MIN, 2 STL
Shooting Splits: 18-31 FG (58.1%), 4-10 3PM (40.0%), 22-25 FT (88.0%)
During the 2005-06 NBA season, facing off against the Dallas Mavericks, Kobe Bryant etched his name in the record books with an awe-inspiring 62-point game. The date was December 20, 2005, and the Staples Center bore witness to one of the most memorable individual performances in NBA history.
Bryant’s scoring exhibition was a masterclass in efficiency and versatility. From mid-range jumpers to three-pointers and free throws, Kobe displayed the full repertoire of scoring skills. Notably, in this historic game, Bryant did not record a single assist, emphasizing his focus on carrying the offensive load.
The Lakers secured a 112-90 victory, and Bryant’s 62-point performance left fans and fellow players in awe. The absence of assists in his stat line only amplifies the individual brilliance displayed by the Black Mamba on that memorable night.
5. Wilt Chamberlain – 62 Points
Stats: 62 PTS, 12 REB, 48 MIN
Shooting Splits: 27-44 FG (61.4%), 8-17 FT (47.1%)
Wilt Chamberlain’s name resurfaces once again, reaffirming his status as one of the most prolific scorers the game has ever witnessed. During the 1962-63 NBA season, Chamberlain added another chapter to his legendary career, achieving a remarkable 62-point game with the San Francisco Warriors in a matchup against the New York Knicks.
Chamberlain’s ability to score with efficiency and sheer dominance was on full display. Despite facing constant defensive attention, he managed to convert over 60% of his field goal attempts. The absence of assists in his stat line underscores Chamberlain’s focus on shouldering the scoring burden for his team.
The game ended with a 169-147 victory for the San Francisco Warriors, solidifying Chamberlain’s reputation as an unstoppable force on the offensive end. His 62-point performance remains a testament to his scoring prowess and the sheer impact he had on the outcome of games.
6. Wilt Chamberlain – 62 Points
Stats: 61 PTS, 36 REB, 48 MIN
Shooting Splits: 28-48 FG (58.3%), 5-10 FT (50.0%)
The date was March 18, 1962, when the Philadelphia Warriors squared off against the Chicago Packers, and Wilt Chamberlain left an indelible mark on the game.
Chamberlain’s sheer dominance on the boards, coupled with his scoring prowess, was on full display. With an impressive 61 points and an astounding 36 rebounds, Chamberlain propelled his team to a 136-116 victory. Notably, in this game, he did not record a single assist, showcasing his relentless focus on scoring and rebounding.
The shooting splits reveal Chamberlain’s efficiency, converting over 58% of his field goal attempts. Despite facing defensive pressure, he showcased his scoring versatility both inside and outside the paint.
As we revisit Chamberlain’s historic performances, this game against the Chicago Packers stands out as a testament to his ability to control the game’s narrative through scoring and rebounding. Wilt Chamberlain’s impact on the court transcends eras, and his legacy as one of the greatest scorers in NBA history remains firmly intact.
7. Purvis Short – 59 Points
Stats: 59 PTS, 5 REB, 40 MIN, 1 STL
Shooting Splits: 20-28 FG (71.4%), 4-6 3PM (66.7%), 15-16 FT (93.8%)
On November 17, 1984, at the height of the NBA season, the Golden State Warriors faced off against the New Jersey Nets, and Purvis Short took center stage with an extraordinary scoring display.
Short’s offensive efficiency was a sight to behold, converting over 71% of his field goal attempts. Beyond the arc, he displayed accuracy with a 66.7% shooting percentage, while maintaining near perfection at the free-throw line.
In this remarkable performance, Short did not register a single assist, emphasizing his role as the primary scoring option for the Warriors. The game concluded with a 129-121 victory for Golden State, with Short’s 59-point masterpiece etching his name in the franchise’s history.
As we celebrate the individual brilliance of NBA players, Purvis Short’s 59-point game serves as a reminder of the diverse talents that have graced the hardwood over the years.
8. Wilt Chamberlain – 59 Points
Credit: Fadeaway World
Stats: 59 PTS, 17 REB, 48 MIN
Shooting Splits: 24-51 FG (47.1%), 11-16 FT (68.8%)
Wilt Chamberlain’s scoring prowess continues to dominate our exploration of remarkable individual performances. In the 1962-63 NBA season, Chamberlain, then playing for the San Francisco Warriors, orchestrated another unforgettable game, this time against the Cincinnati Royals.
Chamberlain’s performance was marked by an incredible 59 points and a commanding 17 rebounds, underlining his dual threat on both ends of the court. Despite a slightly lower shooting percentage, his sheer volume of field goals and effectiveness at the free-throw line contributed significantly to the Warriors’ success.
Notably, in this game, Chamberlain did not record a single assist, highlighting his primary role as a scorer and rebounder. The Warriors secured a 136-117 victory, with Chamberlain’s dominant presence being the driving force behind their success.
As we revisit Chamberlain’s historic performances, this game against the Cincinnati Royals adds another chapter to his legacy as one of the most dominant players in NBA history.
9. Wilt Chamberlain – 59 Points
Credit: Malcolm Emmons/USA Today Sports
Stats: 59 PTS, 24 REB, 48 MIN
Shooting Splits: 23-37 FG (62.2%), 13-19 FT (68.4%)
Wilt Chamberlain’s dominance in the realm of scoring and rebounding takes center stage once again as we explore two additional instances of his unparalleled performances during the 1961-62 NBA season, both against the New York Knicks.
On August 2, 1962, the Philadelphia Warriors faced the New York Knicks, and Wilt Chamberlain left an indelible mark with a breathtaking display of scoring and rebounding.
Chamberlain’s impact was felt on both ends of the court, amassing 59 points and an astonishing 24 rebounds. His shooting efficiency, particularly from the field and the free-throw line, underscored his dominance. In this game, Chamberlain did not record any assists, emphasizing his singular focus on scoring and controlling the boards.
The Warriors emerged victorious with a 136-120 win, and Chamberlain’s 59-point performance against the Knicks became another jewel in his storied career.
10. Wilt Chamberlain – 59 Points
Credit: Malcolm Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Stats: 59 PTS, 36 REB, 58 MIN
Shooting Splits: 23-44 FG (52.3%), 13-22 FT (59.1%)
Wilt Chamberlain’s extraordinary performances during the 1961-62 NBA season, particularly on Christmas Day, against the New York Knicks, stand as timeless testaments to his scoring and rebounding prowess.
Chamberlain’s remarkable Christmas Day performance showcased his endurance and sustained high-level performance during the holiday season. With 59 points and an astounding 36 rebounds, Chamberlain’s impact on the court was unparalleled. Similar to the previous game, he did not record any assists, emphasizing his scoring and rebounding dominance.
