Let’s dive into a discussion about some of the NBA’s best scoring big men, an area where size and skill collide to create unforgettable moments on the court. We’re talking about legends who have dominated the paint, exhibited remarkable shooting touch, and become essential cogs in their teams’ success.
First and foremost, consider Shaquille O’Neal. The man was a physical marvel, standing at 7’1″ and weighing 325 pounds. With a career scoring average of 23.7 points per game, Shaq was an unstoppable force in the low post. He could overpower most defenders with ease, often leading him to high efficiency and unmatchable dominance during his era. Shaq’s sheer size and strength meant he could score almost at will, leading to numerous NBA championships and MVP awards.
Then there’s Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, who still holds the record for most points scored in NBA history with 38,387 points. His signature move, the Skyhook, was practically unguardable. Kareem used his 7’2″ frame to shoot over almost any defender, and his finesse around the basket was legendary. His longevity—playing 20 seasons in the league—added to his mythos, showcasing not just skill but career durability. Many fans and analysts view Kareem’s scoring prowess as a benchmark for future generations.
A modern example that always comes to mind is Kevin Durant. Standing at 6’10” with a wingspan of 7’5″, Durant has consistently been one of the top scorers in the league. Despite being categorized as a small forward, his height and the way he scores, often sees him playing like a modern big man. With a career average of around 27 points per game and multiple scoring titles, Durant’s combination of shooting range, ball-handling, and scoring ability makes him a constant threat on the floor. His efficiency—often shooting over 50% from the field—ranks him among the elite scorers of all time.
Dirk Nowitzki is another name that shines brightly in the conversation. His significance extends beyond his impressive 30,000+ career points. Dirk revolutionized the power forward position with his ability to shoot from deep, making him one of the first true stretch-fours. His one-legged fadeaway jumper became an iconic part of his game, leading him to an MVP award and an NBA championship with the Dallas Mavericks. The 7-foot German changed how we think about big men and their versatility on offense.
More recently, Joel Embiid’s rise has captured a lot of attention. Playing for the Philadelphia 76ers, Embiid has demonstrated a rare combination of post moves, shooting touch, and defensive prowess. Standing at 7’0″ and weighing around 280 pounds, Embiid averages over 26 points per game and is among the leaders in Player Efficiency Rating (PER). His impact extends beyond just scoring, but it’s his ability to dominate offensively that places him on this list.
Certainly, we can’t forget about Tim Duncan, known as the Big Fundamental. Tim’s career speaks volumes about his scoring capabilities. He accumulated over 26,000 points through a mix of bank shots, post-ups, and smart plays. Duncan, who stood at 6’11”, averaged 19 points per game over his 19-year career with the San Antonio Spurs. His scoring—and overall gameplay—earned him five NBA championships and three Finals MVPs, making him one of the greatest of all time.
Karl Malone stands as another pillar, famously known as The Mailman. Delivering night after night, Karl racked up 36,928 points, securing his place as the second-highest scorer in NBA history. His powerful physique and relentless work ethic on the court allowed him to average 25 points per game over his 19 seasons. Playing alongside John Stockton, Malone often capitalized on pick-and-roll situations, showcasing his scoring versatility and consistency.
Anthony Davis is another player worth mentioning. His unique blend of size, skill, and athleticism makes him a nightmare matchup. Standing at 6’10” with a 7’6″ wingspan, AD has the ability to score inside and from mid-range effectively. His career average of around 24 points per game illustrates his scoring capabilities. Additionally, Davis’s ability to stretch the floor with his shooting and control the paint enhances his team’s offensive schemes significantly.
Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Greek Freak, has transformed from a raw talent into a scoring monster. His 7-foot frame and guard-like agility make him incredibly difficult to defend. Giannis averages over 22 points per game for his career but has surpassed 30 points per game in peak seasons. His scoring primarily comes from powerful drives to the basket, incredible transition play, and improving jump shots. His two MVP awards are a testament to his immense impact on the game.
Lastly, it’s essential to mention Hakeem Olajuwon, whose Dream Shake is still talked about today. At 7’0″ tall, Hakeem’s footwork was mesmerizing, allowing him to score with elegance and precision. His career averaged 21.8 points per game, and he racked up over 26,000 points in total. Olajuwon’s skills in the post were nearly unmatched, and his ability to score in clutch moments solidified his status as one of the best.
All these players have left or are leaving indelible marks on the game. Their scoring abilities are supported by their physical attributes, unique skills, and the significant impact they’ve had in their eras. For more discussions and updates on the NBA and other sports, check out arena plus.