The NBA player who holds the record for scoring the most points in a game without missing a single shot from the field is Wilt Chamberlain.
The Unblemished Performance
On February 24, 1967, legendary center Wilt Chamberlain etched his name into the NBA record books with an extraordinary scoring display. Playing against the Baltimore Bullets, Chamberlain scored an astounding 42 points without a single missed field goal. This performance stands as the highest point total ever achieved by a player maintaining a perfect shooting percentage from the floor in an NBA game.
Chamberlain's impeccable efficiency in this game highlights his unparalleled skill and dominance. It's a rare feat in professional basketball, where high-volume scorers often take many shots, making it challenging to maintain perfect accuracy. This particular game underscores his ability to combine prolific scoring with remarkable precision.
Key Details of the Record
To fully appreciate Chamberlain's incredible accomplishment, here are the essential details of his record-setting night:
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Player | Wilt Chamberlain |
| Points Scored | 42 |
| Missed Field Goals | 0 (He famously went 18-for-18 from the field in this game) |
| Opponent | Baltimore Bullets |
| Date | February 24, 1967 |
It's important to note that this record specifically pertains to field goals (shots taken from anywhere on the court other than the free-throw line). While free throws are part of a player's total points, the "without missing" aspect of this record focuses on maintaining a perfect shooting percentage from the field.
The Significance of Perfection
Achieving a perfect shooting night, especially while scoring a high volume of points, is an exceptionally rare occurrence in the demanding environment of the NBA. It reflects a unique blend of:
- Exceptional Shot Selection: Players must choose their attempts wisely, taking only high-percentage shots.
- Offensive Strategy: The team's offensive flow and ability to create easy scoring opportunities play a crucial role.
- Opponent's Defense: The defensive pressure exerted by the opposing team can influence shot accuracy.
- Player's Skill and Focus: Elite talent combined with unwavering concentration throughout the entire game is paramount.
Wilt Chamberlain, renowned for his numerous scoring records and unparalleled statistical feats, added this distinct accomplishment to his storied career. His 42-point game without a single field goal miss is a testament to his sheer dominance and efficiency, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest and most statistically overwhelming players in basketball history.
