Wilt Chamberlain’s legendary 100-point game in 1962 remains one of the most iconic records in sports history. However, in today’s fast-paced and offense-driven NBA, there are a few current players who possess the talent and scoring prowess to potentially break this seemingly unbreakable record. Here are five current NBA players who could one day surpass Chamberlain’s 100-point game:
1. Kevin Durant
Kevin Durant, with his unparalleled scoring ability and versatility, is always a threat to explode for a massive scoring night. Standing at nearly seven feet tall with a lethal jump shot, Durant can score from anywhere on the court. His ability to create his own shot, combined with his efficiency, makes him a prime candidate to Chamberlain’s record. Durant’s career-high is 55 points, but in the right circumstances and with his ability to get hot from beyond the arc, he could potentially reach the century mark.
2. Stephen Curry
Stephen Curry revolutionized the game with his extraordinary three-point shooting. On any given night, Curry can catch fire and single-handedly carry his team with his scoring. His career-high of 62 points came in just 36 minutes, showcasing his capability for explosive scoring. If Curry were to have an otherworldly night where he makes 20 or more three-pointers, coupled with his proficiency in free throws, he could conceivably approach or surpass 100 points.
3. James Harden
James Harden’s scoring prowess, particularly during his time with the Houston Rockets, has been nothing short of remarkable. Harden has already scored 60 points in a game multiple times and has the unique ability to draw fouls and score from the free-throw line. His isolation skills and step-back three-pointers make him a scoring machine. On a night when everything clicks, and if he remains aggressive throughout, Harden has the potential to threaten Wilt’s record.
4. Giannis Antetokounmpo
Giannis Antetokounmpo, the “Greek Freak,” combines size, athleticism, and skill in a way that few players in history have. His ability to dominate inside the paint and run the floor in transition makes him a constant scoring threat. Giannis has shown the ability to put up big numbers, and if his outside shooting continues to improve, he could become even more dangerous. In a game where he stays aggressive and efficient, Giannis has the physical tools to challenge the 100-point barrier.
5. Devin Booker
Devin Booker already has a 70-point game under his belt, the highest among current players. Booker’s scoring ability and shooting range make him a legitimate candidate to surpass Chamberlain’s record. He has demonstrated the capability to score in bunches and take over games. If Booker has a night where he is exceptionally efficient and gets to the free-throw line often, he could very well surpass the 100-point mark, especially if the game goes into overtime.
### The Perfect Storm
For any player to surpass Wilt Chamberlain’s 100-point game, several factors need to align perfectly. The game would likely need to be high-scoring and competitive to ensure the player stays on the court for the entire duration. The player would need to be exceptionally hot from the field, possibly from beyond the arc, and also get to the free-throw line frequently. Additionally, the team’s game plan would need to focus on feeding the hot hand continuously.
While Chamberlain’s 100-point game stands as a monumental achievement, the evolution of the NBA and the emergence of prolific scorers keep the possibility alive. Whether or not anyone will ever surpass that mark remains to be seen, but these five players certainly have the talent and scoring ability to make it a reality.