When it comes to career field goals made in the NBA, we’re talking about some of the greatest scorers in basketball history. These players have spent countless hours perfecting their craft, and it shows in the numbers. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar tops the list with an astounding 15,837 field goals made throughout his 20-year career. It’s a number that baffles even the most seasoned analysts, given the rigor and consistency required to maintain such performance over two decades. He averaged 24.6 points per game, with a field goal percentage of 55.9%, a testament to his finesse in the paint and his signature skyhook shot.
Karl Malone comes in second with 13,528 made shots. Playing 18 seasons primarily with the Utah Jazz, Malone was known for his incredible work ethic and durability, which allowed him to log plenty of minutes on the court. He scored 36,928 points in total, second only to Abdul-Jabbar. The “Mailman,” as he was nicknamed, delivered with a consistent shooting percentage of 51.6%. His relentless drive and sheer physicality often overwhelmed defenders.
Next up is LeBron James, who continues to climb the ranks. As of now, he’s made over 14,000 field goals and is still an active player. In his illustrious career, spanning 20 years and counting, James has demonstrated an unparalleled blend of strength, speed, and basketball IQ. At 38 years old, he shows no signs of slowing down, breaking records left and right. He carries a career average of 27.1 points per game and a field goal percentage of 50.5%, solidifying his status as one of the all-time greats.
Wilt Chamberlain stands fourth with 12,681 field goals made. His career spanned from 1959 to 1973, a period during which he averaged a staggering 30.1 points per game. Chamberlain’s dominance is often measured by his 100-point game against the New York Knicks, a record that still stands today. He shot efficiently as well, with a career field goal percentage of 54.0%. His physical attributes were unparalleled at the time; standing at 7’1″ and weighing 275 pounds, he used his size to dominate both ends of the court.
Michael Jordan, widely regarded as the greatest basketball player of all time, ranks fifth on this list with 12,192 field goals made. His Airness played 15 seasons, amassing 32,292 points with an average of 30.1 points per game. Jordan’s competitive spirit and clutch performances are the stuff of legend. He shot 49.7% from the field over his career, excelling in mid-range shots and acrobatic finishes at the rim. His influence on the game extends far beyond these numbers, as his style and relentless pursuit of excellence inspired a generation of players.
The modern era sees players like Kevin Durant and James Harden making their mark too. Durant, one of the most versatile scorers in NBA history, has already amassed over 10,000 field goals made in his career. His height (6’10”) combined with his shooting ability makes him a near-impossible cover for defenders. Harden, known for his step-back three-pointers and ability to draw fouls, has also made significant contributions with his scoring prowess. Both players are poised to climb higher up the leaderboard as their careers progress.
Shaquille O’Neal also deserves mention with 11,330 field goals made. O’Neal’s 19-year career saw him dominate the paint like few others. Standing 7’1″ and weighing 325 pounds, Shaq’s size and skill were mind-boggling. He averaged 23.7 points per game and maintained a field goal percentage of 58.2%. His ability to overpower defenders in the low post made him one of the most efficient scorers in NBA history.
Other notable mentions include Dirk Nowitzki with 11,169 field goals made and Elvin Hayes with 10,976. Nowitzki’s 21-year career with the Dallas Mavericks revolutionized the power forward position with his superb shooting ability and the signature one-legged fadeaway. Hayes, a 12-time All-Star, was known for his scoring and rebounding proficiency during his 16-year career, primarily with the Washington Bullets.
Scoring in the NBA isn’t just about talent; it’s also about longevity and adaptability. These players have not only excelled in their prime but sustained their performance over many years, adjusting to evolving styles of play and competition. The consistency shown by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Karl Malone, and LeBron James sets a benchmark for future players eager to write their names in the history books.
In the modern game, the role of advanced analytics cannot be ignored. Metrics like effective field goal percentage (eFG%) and player efficiency rating (PER) help quantify a player’s scoring efficiency and overall impact. These metrics will continue to evolve and shape our understanding of what makes a player great. As we celebrate the achievements of past and present players, it’s exciting to think about who will be the next to join this elite group.
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