In NBA history, only a handful of players have crossed the 50-point line often enough to make it feel routine. Scoring 50 in a single game is a rare feat—but for some legends, it became second nature.
This isn’t just about points—it’s about dominance, rhythm, and putting a team on your back. These players didn’t just have big nights—they had legendary ones.
This list dives into the all-time leaders in 50-point games, spotlighting icons like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James. Shockingly, LeBron doesn’t even crack the top five, while Wilt Chamberlain’s mind-blowing record may never be broken. From dominant big men to unstoppable perimeter scorers, these players redefined offensive greatness.
Let’s take a look at the elite company of NBA stars with the most 50-point performances in league history.
10. Allen Iverson: 11 games
The Answer was built for buckets. Small in size, huge in heart, AI’s 50-point nights were fueled by quickness, handles, and fearless shot-taking.
8. Rick Barry: 14 games
An elite scorer in the ’60s and ’70s, Barry had a smooth jumper and wasn’t afraid to take over games—especially in the ABA-NBA era.
8. LeBron James: 14 games
Surprisingly not higher, but LeBron’s scoring has always been about efficiency and impact. His 50-point games are usually complete takeovers.
6. Stephen Curry: 15 games
The greatest shooter in NBA history, Steph’s 50-point games often come in flurries—long-range bombs and jaw-dropping heat checks.
6. Damian Lillard: 15 games
“Dame Time” isn’t just a slogan. When Lillard heats up, he can torch any defense from anywhere on the floor—especially in clutch moments.
5. Elgin Baylor: 17 games
A pioneer of modern scoring, Baylor was decades ahead of his time with his athleticism and mid-air creativity. He lit up defenses in the ‘60s.
4. James Harden: 24 games
At his peak in Houston, Harden was a scoring machine. His step-back threes and trips to the line led to some of the most efficient 50-point games ever.
3. Kobe Bryant: 25 games
From his iconic 81-point game to a streak of four straight 50+ games in 2007, Kobe’s scoring explosions were pure basketball theater.
2. Michael Jordan: 31 games
The ultimate competitor, MJ’s 50-point games often came in big moments. His ability to dominate defenses at will made him a scoring legend.
1. Wilt Chamberlain: 118 games
An untouchable record. Wilt’s 50-point nights weren’t just frequent—they were routine. He once scored 50+ in 45 games in a single season.
Notable mentions:
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar – 10
Kevin Durant – 9
Giannis Antetokounmpo – 9
Bernard King – 8
Devin Booker – 8
Joel Embiid – 8
