Basketball has been one of the most popular sports in the world for decades. It has been continuously developing with the influx of new athletes and technologies. One of the aspects of the sport that has always been appreciated is the scoring element. Scoring in basketball has undergone a major transformation from the early days of the NBA to the present. The NBA’s evolution in scoring has led to some of the most exciting games in the history of the sport. From Chamberlain’s dominance in the 60s to Curry’s launch of the modern-day three-ball, let’s take a look at how the NBA scoring has evolved over time.
Wilt Chamberlain Era (1960-70):
Wilt Chamberlain was the most dominant scorer of all time during the NBA’s early years. During the 1960s, Wilt Chamberlain averaged an astonishing 50 points per game in one season and 44.8 points per game in another. Chamberlain had the ability to score from close range and had an impressive mid-range jump shot. He was known for his incredible athleticism and strength, which allowed him to dominate the game. It’s safe to say that Wilt was the pioneer for big man’s scoring in basketball.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Era (1970-80):
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was another dominant scorer in the NBA’s history. He was known for his unguardable skyhook, which helped him finish as the league’s all-time leading scorer. During his career, Abdul-Jabbar won six MVP awards, and he scored more than 38,000 points, the most in NBA history until Karl Malone surpassed him in 1994. Abdul-Jabbar was the first player in NBA history to score 38,000 points, and he did it with his fundamentally sound game.
Michael Jordan Era (1980-90):
Michael Jordan was the most popular player of the 90s, and he is known as one of the best players of all time. He was a true scorer. Jordan was a dominant force with the Chicago Bulls, as he won six NBA championships and five MVP awards. He is second on the NBA’s all-time scoring list with 32,292 points. Jordan was a player who could score from any part of the court, whether it was inside the paint or from beyond the arc.
Kobe Bryant Era (2000-10):
Kobe Bryant was one of the deadliest scorers in the NBA history with a vast array of moves at his disposal. His footwork was impeccable, and his fadeaway jumper was nearly unblockable. Kobe had a pure shooting form that left defenders helpless. During the Lakers’ three-peat from 2000-2002, Kobe was the leading scorer in each of those championship seasons. Like Jordan, Kobe was known for his clutch performances.
Modern-Day Era – Stephen Curry (2010-present):
Stephen Curry is one of the most influential players in modern-day NBA as far as the scoring goes. He is a transcendent player who has revolutionized the game, especially with his long-range shooting ability. He has led the Golden State Warriors to three NBA championships. Curry can score from anywhere on the court, as he can make shots from beyond the arc that no other player can. The three-pointer has become a more significant factor in the modern-day NBA, thanks to Curry and his exploits on the court.
In conclusion, the NBA’s scoring has undergone a significant transformation from the early days of the sport to the modern-day era. The League has seen an incredible influx of talent over the years, and each new generation of players has brought its own unique style of play to the court. Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and Stephen Curry are five players who have had an enormous impact on the scoring in the NBA. The NBA’s evolution in scoring has enabled fans to witness some of the most exciting games in basketball history.