Top 25 NBA Scorers of All Time
The NBA has seen legendary scorers across generations, but only a select few have managed to etch their names into the top 25 in all-time points. From dominant big men to sharpshooting guards, this list honors the most prolific point-getters in league history — starting from number 25 and working our way to the top.
25. DeMar DeRozan – 25,292 Points
DeMar DeRozan has quietly built an impressive scoring résumé with his smooth mid-range game and relentless drives to the basket. His consistency over the years has made him one of the most dependable offensive weapons of his era.
24. Stephen Curry – 25,386 Points
The greatest shooter in NBA history, Stephen Curry has revolutionized the game with his deep three-pointers and off-ball movement. His offensive impact goes far beyond his numbers, but 25,000+ points highlight his scoring excellence.
23. Alex English – 25,613 Points
Alex English was a scoring machine throughout the 1980s, using finesse and efficiency rather than flash. He remains one of the most underrated scorers in league history despite his impressive totals.
22. Vince Carter – 25,728 Points
Known for his electrifying dunks and longevity, Vince Carter combined athleticism with a steady jump shot to climb the scoring ladder. His 22-year career gave him the time to leave a lasting mark on the NBA record books.
21. Kevin Garnett – 26,071 Points
While Garnett was best known for his defense and intensity, he was also a versatile offensive weapon. His ability to score from mid-range and in the post helped him rack up over 26,000 career points.
20. Russell Westbrook – 26,205 Points
Westbrook’s explosive athleticism and fearless mentality made him a constant scoring threat. His triple-double prowess and relentless attacking style contributed heavily to his climb into the top 20.
19. John Havlicek – 26,395 Points
A Celtics legend, John Havlicek combined endurance and hustle with a reliable scoring touch. His contributions during Boston’s dynasty years made him one of the franchise’s most important figures.
18. Paul Pierce – 26,397 Points
“The Truth” was a clutch scorer who thrived in isolation and big moments. Pierce’s ability to get buckets from all areas of the court made him a consistent offensive force for nearly two decades.
17. Tim Duncan – 26,496 Points
Though not flashy, Tim Duncan’s fundamentals and efficiency earned him a massive career point total. The “Big Fundamental” was the backbone of San Antonio’s dynasty, anchoring their offense and defense alike.
16. Dominique Wilkins – 26,668 Points
Dominique Wilkins, “The Human Highlight Film,” dazzled fans with his high-flying dunks and scoring prowess. His combination of flair and efficiency made him one of the most entertaining scorers ever.
15. Oscar Robertson – 26,710 Points
The original triple-double king, Oscar Robertson was a dominant scorer and playmaker in the 1960s and early ‘70s. His powerful drives and court vision helped him rack up points and assists at historic levels.
14. Hakeem Olajuwon – 26,946 Points
Olajuwon’s footwork and post moves made him virtually unguardable. He was not only a defensive anchor but also one of the most polished offensive big men the league has ever seen.
13. Elvin Hayes – 27,313 Points
“Elvin the Big E” was a durable and consistent force throughout his career. He combined a strong inside presence with a soft shooting touch, making him a nightmare for opposing defenses.
12. Moses Malone – 27,409 Points
Moses Malone was a rebounding beast and one of the best offensive rebounders ever. His ability to score second-chance points helped him accumulate an extraordinary number of career points.
11. James Harden – 27,687 Points
James Harden’s scoring explosion in Houston showcased his elite offensive skills. With his signature step-backs and knack for drawing fouls, Harden has been one of the most unstoppable scorers of the 2010s and 2020s.
10. Carmelo Anthony – 28,289 Points
Melo’s silky jumper and elite footwork made him one of the league’s premier scorers for years. His ability to score in isolation and spot-up situations defined his NBA legacy.
9. Shaquille O’Neal – 28,596 Points
Shaq dominated with size, strength, and agility rarely seen in a center. He overwhelmed defenders in the paint, racking up points at a historic rate during his peak.
8. Kevin Durant – 30,571 Points
One of the purest scorers in history, Kevin Durant blends length, skill, and shooting to get buckets at will. His efficiency and versatility have made him a perennial scoring champion.
7. Wilt Chamberlain – 31,419 Points
Wilt Chamberlain shattered scoring records in the 1960s with his sheer dominance. His 100-point game and multiple 50+ PPG seasons are legendary milestones in NBA history.
6. Dirk Nowitzki – 31,560 Points
Dirk’s one-legged fadeaway and deadly shooting made him one of the greatest offensive big men ever. The German legend redefined the power forward position and inspired a new generation of stretch bigs.
5. Michael Jordan – 32,292 Points
Michael Jordan was the ultimate competitor and scorer, delivering points with unmatched grace and killer instinct. His six titles and ten scoring titles cement his place among the game’s elite.
4. Kobe Bryant – 33,643 Points
Kobe’s footwork, mentality, and shot-making ability earned him a legendary scoring résumé. His 81-point game and numerous clutch performances exemplify his greatness.
3. Karl Malone – 36,928 Points
Malone was a model of durability and consistency, thriving as a pick-and-roll finisher. His partnership with John Stockton helped him maintain elite scoring for nearly two decades.
2. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar – 38,387 Points
Kareem’s skyhook was nearly impossible to defend, and his longevity kept him atop the all-time scoring list for decades. His six MVPs and scoring consistency highlight his all-time greatness.
1. LeBron James – 42,184 Points
LeBron James is the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, an incredible feat for a player once known more for passing. His ability to evolve his game and stay dominant into his 40s is a testament to his unmatched greatness.
