The NBA scoring champions represent the league’s most dominant offensive forces in a given season. These players led the NBA in points per game, often carrying their teams with unmatched scoring ability. From flashy guards to unstoppable forwards, NBA scoring champions reflect the evolution of offensive basketball. Their consistency, efficiency, and volume separate them from other great scorers.
When making NBA picks or studying past trends, these elite scorers often stand out. They influenced how defenses game-planned and how fans viewed greatness. Their performances shaped MVP races and playoff hopes. Even decades later, their stats remain benchmarks for modern stars.
In this list of the 10 best NBA scoring champions, we spotlight legends who redefined scoring greatness. They didn’t just score – they did so with style, power, and impact. Some names on this list earned multiple scoring titles, cementing their place in history. Others had one unforgettable season where everything clicked.
Scoring titles require more than talent. They demand endurance, health, and a relentless drive to score night after night. These ten players embodied those qualities. As NBA offenses continue to evolve, these champions remain timeless examples of offensive excellence. Let’s dive into the greatest scoring seasons ever.
Kobe Bryant: The Black Mamba = Scoring
No. of Scoring Titles: 2 (Los Angeles Lakers, 2005-06, 2006-07)
Career Stats: 25.0 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 4.7 APG; 44.7 FG%, 32.9 FG3%, 83.7 FT%
Kobe Bryant ranks 10th on the list of NBA scoring champions because of his historic 2005-06 scoring season. That year, he averaged 35.4 points per game, the highest of his career. Bryant carried a struggling Lakers team by scoring at will from all areas on the court. He often relied on his deadly fadeaway and polished footwork.
Known as one of the best mid-range shooters in NBA history, Kobe punished defenders with tough, contested jumpers. His ability to create space was elite. Moreover, he scored 40 or more points 27 times that season, including his iconic 81-point game against Toronto. That remains the second-highest scoring performance in NBA history.
In the 2006-07 season, Kobe Bryant claimed his second straight NBA scoring title by averaging 31.6 points per game. He continued to dominate as one of the league’s most unstoppable offensive forces, combining elite footwork with deadly mid-range shooting.
Bryant posted ten 50-point games that season, including four in a row during March – a feat unseen since Wilt Chamberlain. Despite relentless defensive pressure, Kobe consistently created scoring opportunities with precision and flair.
While others scored more efficiently, Kobe’s scoring volume and style were unmatched. He thrived in isolation, facing double teams and still delivering. As defenses loaded up against him, he embraced the challenge and elevated his game. His competitive fire and shot-making defined that season.
Kobe’s lone scoring title came at the peak of his offensive powers. Though not his most efficient year, it was his most explosive. For that unforgettable dominance, Bryant earns the 10th spot among the greatest NBA scoring champions ever.
Shaquille O’Neal: Diesel Had a Couple of Dominant Scoring Seasons
No. of Scoring Titles: 2 (Orlando Magic, 1994-95; Los Angeles Lakers, 1999-00)
Career Stats: 23.7 PPG, 10.9 RPG, 2.5 APG; 58.2 FG%, 4.5 FG3%, 52.7 FT%
Shaquille O’Neal ranks 9th on the list of NBA scoring champions because of his unstoppable dominance during his prime years. He won the NBA scoring title twice – first in the 1994-95 season, averaging 29.3 points per game with the Orlando Magic. Then, in the 1999-2000 season, he posted 29.7 points per game as a Los Angeles Laker. Both seasons showcased his unmatched strength, size, and agility in the paint.
Shaq overwhelmed defenders with powerful dunks, quick post moves, and brute force. His ability to finish through contact made him nearly unguardable. Despite poor free-throw shooting, he still led the league in scoring due to his high field goal percentage. He shot over 57% in both title-winning seasons, and gave strong NBA odds during his scoring tears.
During the 1999-2000 campaign, Shaq also won MVP and led the Lakers to a championship. His scoring directly translated to team success. Defenders often fouled him intentionally, yet he remained productive and efficient.
Shaq didn’t rely on finesse. He dominated with physicality and smart positioning. Few could match his impact near the rim. His two scoring titles reflect a rare mix of size, skill, and relentlessness. For these reasons, Shaquille O’Neal takes the 9th spot among all NBA scoring champions.
George Mikan: Big Mike on the Low Block Changed the Rules
No. of Scoring Titles: 3 (Minneapolis Lakers, 1948-49, 1949-50, 1950-51)
Career Stats: 23.1 PPG, 13.4 RPG, 2.8 APG; 40.4 FG%, N/A FG3%, 78.2 FT%
George Mikan ranks 8th on the list of NBA scoring champions because he dominated the early years of professional basketball. He won three NBA scoring titles – in 1948-49, 1949-50, and 1950-51 – while averaging over 27 points per game in each season. Mikan led the league with hook shots, layups, and unmatched physicality around the basket.
Standing 6-foot-10, Mikan used his size to overpower smaller defenders in the paint. Defenses had no answers for his post play. Because of his dominance, the NBA introduced several rule changes. The league widened the lane from six to twelve feet to limit his post positioning. The shot clock was later introduced to counter slow-paced, Mikan-led offenses.
Despite these changes, Mikan continued to score efficiently and consistently. He was the league’s first true superstar and set the standard for big men. His scoring titles came during a time when the NBA was still evolving, yet his impact was immediate.
Mikan’s influence forced the league to modernize. His dominance shaped how the game developed. While his era was different, his scoring success remains historic. For his three titles and transformative impact, George Mikan earns the 8th spot among all-time NBA scoring champions.
Bob McAdoo: Mac Had a Great 3-Season Scoring Champion Run
No. of Scoring Titles: 3 (Buffalo Braves, 1973-74, 1974-75, 1975-76)
Career Stats: 22.1 PPG, 9.4 RPG, 2.3 APG; 50.3 FG%, 8.1 FG3%, 75.4 FT%
Bob McAdoo ranks 7th on the list of NBA scoring champions due to his incredible scoring run in the mid-1970s. He won three consecutive scoring titles from 1973-74 to 1975-76 while playing for the Buffalo Braves. In those seasons, McAdoo averaged 30.6, 34.5, and 31.1 points per game, respectively.
McAdoo dominated with a smooth shooting touch, especially from mid-range. He had excellent footwork and could score facing the basket. Unlike many big men of his era, McAdoo regularly stepped out for jump shots. His unique style made him tough to guard.
Moreover, he was an elite athlete who could run the floor and finish in transition. His versatility created constant matchup problems for defenses. Despite being a center, McAdoo played more like a forward, stretching the floor and hitting shots consistently.
In 1975, he also won the MVP award, highlighting his complete dominance. His scoring helped turn Buffalo into a playoff contender. Few players matched his blend of size, speed, and shooting during that era.
McAdoo’s three-year scoring reign was both efficient and explosive. His offensive skill set was ahead of its time. For that remarkable stretch, Bob McAdoo deserves the 7th spot among NBA scoring champions.
James Harden: The Beard Was Unleashed in Houston
No. of Scoring Titles: 3 (Houston Rockets, 2017-18, 2018-19, 2019-20)
Career Stats: 24.1 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 7.2 APG; 43.9 FG%, 36.3 FG3%, 86.1 FT%
James Harden ranks 6th on the list of NBA scoring champions because of his historic scoring run with the Houston Rockets. He won three consecutive scoring titles from 2017-18 to 2019-20, averaging 30.4, 36.1, and 34.3 points per game. Harden revolutionized offense with step-back threes, isolation plays, and elite free-throw shooting.
He overwhelmed defenders using his craftiness, ball-handling, and quick release. Defenses often trapped him, but he still found ways to score. Harden also ranks among the NBA all time three point leaders, making deep shots a regular weapon in his scoring arsenal.
His 2018-19 season was one of the most prolific ever, with 32 games of 40 or more points. He also had nine 50-point games that year, including a 61-point performance at Madison Square Garden. Harden’s combination of efficiency and volume stood out.
In addition, his ability to draw fouls and convert at the line boosted his scoring numbers. Harden made scoring look effortless, often breaking down even elite defenses. His offensive style changed how teams approached guard play and spacing.
Because of his unmatched stretch in Houston, James Harden earns the 6th spot on the list of greatest NBA scoring champions.
George Gervin: The Ice Man Racked Up Tons of Buckets
No. of Scoring Titles: 4 (San Antonio Spurs, 1977-78, 1978-79, 1979-80, 1981-82)
Career Stats: 25.1 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 2.6 APG; 50.4 FG%, 27.1 FG3%, 84.1 FT%
George Gervin ranks 5th on the list of NBA scoring champions because of his smooth, effortless dominance during his San Antonio Spurs years. He won four NBA scoring titles – in 1977-78, 1978-79, 1979-80, and 1981-82 – by averaging 27.2, 29.6, 33.1, and 32.3 points per game, respectively.
Known as “The Iceman,” Gervin scored with unmatched grace and efficiency. His signature move, the finger roll, became his trademark shot. He glided through defenders and finished at the rim with ease. Even under pressure, Gervin maintained his composure and rhythm.
Although he wasn’t a three-point shooter, Gervin still scored at a high rate using mid-range jumpers and quick drives. He consistently punished defenders with his length and soft shooting touch. His scoring didn’t rely on strength – it relied on timing, skill, and smooth execution.
In 1978, he famously scored 63 points in a season finale to clinch the scoring title over David Thompson. That performance highlighted his ability to rise in big moments. He made scoring look effortless while carrying the Spurs offensively.
Because of his four scoring crowns and unique style, George Gervin earns the 5th spot among the greatest NBA scoring champions in history.
Allen Iverson: The Answer Had an Amazing Scoring Tear
No. of Scoring Titles: 4 (Philadelphia 76ers, 1998-99, 2000-01, 2001-02, 2004-05)
Career Stats: 26.7 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 6.2 APG; 42.5 FG%, 31.3 FG3%, 78.0 FT%
Allen Iverson ranks 4th on the list of NBA scoring champions due to his relentless scoring during his Philadelphia 76ers prime. He won four NBA scoring titles – in 1998-99, 2000-01, 2001-02, and 2004-05 – averaging 26.8, 31.1, 31.4, and 30.7 points per game, respectively.
Despite standing only six feet tall, Iverson attacked defenders with fearless drives, quick crossovers, and lightning speed. He constantly drew contact and finished tough layups. His fearless mentality made him a favorite among fans and a nightmare for defenders.
Iverson’s scoring volume made him a popular focus for NBA player prop bets during his peak seasons. Bettors often counted on him to explode. He regularly took on the league’s best defenders and still found ways to deliver.
In 2000-01, Iverson won MVP and led the Sixers to the NBA Finals, carrying a limited roster offensively. He dropped 48 points in Game 1 of the Finals, stunning the Lakers.
Iverson never backed down and never stopped attacking. He played through injuries and pressure with unmatched toughness. His scoring titles reflected not only talent but heart and drive.
Because of his four titles and fearless scoring style, Allen Iverson earns the 4th spot among NBA scoring champions.
Kevin Durant: The Slim Reaper is Automatic
No. of Scoring Titles: 4 (Oklahoma City Thunder, 2009-10, 2010-11, 2011-12, 2013-14)
Career Stats: 27.2 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 4.4 APG; 50.2 FG%, 39.0 FG3%, 88.2 FT%
Kevin Durant ranks 3rd on the list of NBA scoring champions because of his elite skill and consistency across multiple seasons. He won four NBA scoring titles – in 2009-10, 2010-11, 2011-12, and 2013-14 – averaging 30.1, 27.7, 28.0, and 32.0 points per game, respectively.
Standing nearly seven feet tall, Durant combines length, shooting, and ball-handling like no other. He scores from anywhere – mid-range, three-point range, or at the rim. His smooth jumper and efficient shot selection made him nearly impossible to guard.
Durant’s height allows him to shoot over defenders with ease. Moreover, his handles let him create separation against quicker or stronger opponents. He ranks among the best NBA small forwards of all time due to his scoring dominance and versatility.
In 2013-14, Durant won MVP while leading the league in scoring and carrying the Thunder without Russell Westbrook. He scored 25 or more points in 41 consecutive games that season. That run highlighted his consistency and offensive brilliance.
Durant’s ability to adjust and thrive in any offensive system sets him apart. He scores efficiently without needing high usage. For his four scoring crowns and unmatched offensive toolkit, Kevin Durant deserves the 3rd spot among all-time NBA scoring champions.
Wilt Chamberlain: Wilt the Stilt Was a Scoring Machine
No. of Scoring Titles: 7 (Philadelphia / San Francisco Warriors, 1959-60, 1960-61, 1961-62, 1962-63, 1963-64, 1964-65, 1965-66)
Career Stats: 30.1 PPG, 22.9 RPG, 4.4 APG; 54.0 FG%, N/A FG3%, 51.1 FT%
Wilt Chamberlain ranks 2nd on the list of NBA scoring champions because of his unmatched dominance during the 1960s. He won seven NBA scoring titles in 1959-60, 1960-61, 1961-62, 1962-63, 1963-64, 1964-65, and 1965-66. In those seasons, he averaged 37.6, 38.4, 50.4, 44.8, 36.9, 34.7, and 33.5 points per game.
Chamberlain used his size, strength, and athleticism to overpower every defender he faced. He scored easily on dunks, layups, and finger rolls. In 1961-62, he averaged an astonishing 50.4 points per game – a record still untouched today.
Wilt once scored 100 points in a single game, setting a mark never matched. He also played nearly every minute of each game. His incredible stamina and dominance made him one of the best NBA centers in history.
Although teams tried to stop him with physical play and constant fouling, Chamberlain still found ways to score efficiently. His numbers forced rule changes, including offensive goaltending and widening the paint.
Chamberlain’s dominance shaped the game and set statistical standards for future generations. For his seven scoring titles and legendary feats, Wilt Chamberlain earns the 2nd spot among the greatest NBA scoring champions of all time.
Michael Jordan: Air Jordan Leads the NBA Scoring Champions List
No. of Scoring Titles: 10 (Chicago Bulls, 1986-87, 1987-88, 1988-89, 1989-90, 1990-91, 1991-92, 1992-93, 1995-96, 1996-97, 1997-98)
Career Stats: 30.1 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 5.3 APG; 49.7 FG%, 32.7 FG3%, 83.5 FT%
Michael Jordan ranks 1st on the list of NBA scoring champions due to his unmatched offensive dominance and legendary consistency. He won ten NBA scoring titles in 1986-87, 1987-88, 1988-89, 1989-90, 1990-91, 1991-92, 1992-93, 1995-96, 1996-97, and 1997-98. In those seasons, he averaged between 30.1 and 37.1 points per game.
Jordan attacked defenses with elite footwork, mid-range mastery, and explosive drives. His fadeaway jumper became nearly impossible to guard. He also delivered under pressure, often rising in crucial moments to carry the Chicago Bulls.
His scoring titles came while leading his team to six NBA championships. Jordan wasn’t just scoring for stats – he scored to win. He earned five regular season MVP awards during that stretch, reinforcing his all-around dominance.
Jordan ranks among the best NBA shooting guards because of his elite scoring, defensive intensity, and leadership. Defenders threw double-teams and hard fouls, but he kept delivering night after night.
He led the league in scoring every full season he played from 1986 to 1998, excluding his first retirement. That streak shows his greatness and drive.
For his ten titles, iconic performances, and complete offensive arsenal, Michael Jordan stands as the greatest NBA scoring champion of all time.
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