Top 5 Centers With The Most Points In NBA History

Take a dive into the record books as we explore the top five legendary centers with the most points in NBA history.

In the exhilarating world of basketball, centers hold a pivotal role. They tower above their opponents and dictate the game’s flow. Among the various metrics used to measure their impact, points stand tall as a testament to their scoring prowess. Today, we delve into the realm of NBA history to explore the top 5 centers with the most points throughout their illustrious careers. From the towering dominance of Wilt Chamberlain to the graceful skyhook of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, these giants left an indelible mark on the sport. Join us as we unravel these legends and marvel at their remarkable scoring achievements.

5. Hakeem Olajuwon – 26,946 points

Hakeem Olajuwon was a center who redefined versatility and defensive prowess. With a mesmerizing blend of agility, footwork, and shot-blocking prowess, Olajuwon showcased a style that left opponents awestruck. The Nigerian dazzled fans with his post moves, relentless rebounding, and impeccable timing. With his famous “Dream Shake” moniker, he became the MVP in 1994 on route to helping the Houston Rockets clinch back-to-back championships. He averaged a career-best of 27.8 points in 72 regular season games.

4. Moses Malone – 27,409 points

Moses Malone possessed a unique combination of strength, skill, and relentless determination. His rebounding prowess and uncanny knack for finding ways to put the ball in the basket were one of a kind. Malone possessed a remarkable understanding of positioning. He used his size and physicality to overpower opponents and secure second-chance opportunities. His best scoring season came in 1981-82, where he averaged 31.1 points per game with the Houston Rockets. He won the MVP and the championship the following year at the Philadelphia 76ers.

3. Shaquille O’Neal – 28,596 points

Shaquille O’Neal was a force of nature on the basketball court. Standing at a towering height and possessing a Herculean build, O’Neal’s physical presence alone struck fear. But it wasn’t just his size that made him a scoring juggernaut. Shaq possessed an explosive athleticism. It allowed him to dominate the paint with thunderous dunks and unstoppable moves. His combination of strength, agility, and coordination was unparalleled. The center’s best scoring season was in 1999-00. He averaged 29.7 points per game to help the LA Lakers make the playoffs, and later win the first of three straight championships.

2. Wilt Chamberlain – 31,419 points

Wilt Chamberlain was a seven-time scoring champion and four-time MVP. Chamberlain’s career was nothing short of extraordinary, characterized by mind-boggling records. With his immense size, athleticism, and scoring prowess, Wilt was a formidable competitor. His ability to score points seemed effortless. He shattered many records, including the astonishing 100-point game. Scoring-wise, Chamberlain’s best season was 1961-62. He averaged an incredible 50.4 points in 80 games for the Philadelphia Warriors.

1. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar – 38,387 points

Before LeBron James surpassed him in February 2023, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was the NBA’s all-time scoring leader. Kareem held the record for almost four decades, since setting it in 1984. His graceful, iconic skyhook shot was his trademark. He won the MVP award six times, finished as the scoring champion twice, and still tops the list of centers with the most points. While best known for his LA Lakers days, Abdul-Jabbar’s best scoring season was with the Milwaukee Bucks in 1971-72. He averaged 34.8 points in 81 games, helping the Bucks win a first title in only the team’s third campaign.

“Shaq” by ohadby is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.