As we move through the 2024-2025 NBA season, the NBA All-Time Scoring list continues to be a hallmark of individual excellence. From LeBron James to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, the top scorers in NBA history have shaped the game with their remarkable consistency and scoring prowess. Where do the current leaders stand, and what milestones are still to be achieved in the NBA All-Time Scoring race?
Current Top 5 All-Time Scorers (as of November 2024)
LeBron James – 38,400+ points
LeBron James has solidified his place at the top of the NBA All-Time Scoring list, surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s long-standing record in February 2023. With over 38,400 career points, LeBron is poised to continue extending his lead in the NBA All-Time Scoring race. His ability to perform at a high level even at 39 years old demonstrates why he remains one of the most dominant and efficient players in NBA history.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar – 38,387 points
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar held the NBA All-Time Scoring record for nearly 40 years, finishing his career with 38,387 points. While now in second place, his scoring accomplishments remain legendary, particularly his skyhook shot that was nearly impossible to defend. Even though his record has been surpassed, Kareem’s influence on the game remains undeniable.
Karl Malone – 36,928 points
Known as “The Mailman,” Karl Malone ranks third on the NBA All-Time Scoring list, with 36,928 career points. Malone was a scoring machine during his 19-year career, particularly with the Utah Jazz. His combination of power and skill helped him consistently produce offensively, securing his place among the NBA All-Time Scoring leaders.
Kobe Bryant – 33,643 points
Kobe Bryant, who tragically passed away in 2020, remains fourth on the NBA All-Time Scoring list with 33,643 points. Bryant’s legacy as one of the greatest scorers in NBA history is solidified by his relentless work ethic and impressive scoring feats, including his 81-point game in 2006. His five NBA championships also contribute to his lasting impact on the sport.
Michael Jordan – 32,292 points
Michael Jordan ranks fifth on the NBA All-Time Scoring list with 32,292 career points. Despite his relatively shorter career, Jordan’s 30.1 points per game average remains the highest in NBA history. His scoring ability, paired with his six NBA championships and unmatched competitiveness, cements Jordan as one of the most iconic figures in NBA All-Time Scoring.
Kevin Durant’s Position: #8 on the All-Time List
Kevin Durant is currently ranked 8th on the NBA All-Time Scoring list, having scored over 37,500 points as of November 2024. Durant is known for his incredible scoring versatility and ability to produce at a high level despite injuries. Having recently joined the Phoenix Suns, Durant is in a position to climb even further up the NBA All-Time Scoring ranks. While reaching the top spots may be a challenge due to the longevity of players like LeBron James and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Durant’s continued efficiency and scoring capability mean he could surpass players like Wilt Chamberlain and Shaquille O’Neal in the near future.
The Road Ahead: Future of the NBA All-Time Scoring List
Looking ahead, the future of the NBA All-Time Scoring list is filled with possibilities. Kevin Durant, with over 37,500 points, is closing in on players like Wilt Chamberlain (6th) and Shaquille O’Neal (7th). His ability to score consistently in the modern NBA could see him climb further up the list in the next few seasons, potentially challenging for a top 5 position.
The NBA All-Time Scoring race is also shaping up to include younger players like Luka Dončić, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Jayson Tatum. These players, still early in their careers, have the potential to one day break into the top 10. However, their ability to sustain high-level play for a decade or more will be critical in their pursuit of a place among the all-time greats.
For now, the focus remains on the established legends—LeBron James, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Karl Malone—who dominate the top spots in the NBA All-Time Scoring list. As the 2024-2025 season continues, expect to see shifting in the ranks, especially as active players like LeBron James and Durant continue to add to their point totals.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Scoring Excellence
The NBA All-Time Scoring list is more than just a collection of points—it is a tribute to the players who have mastered the art of scoring and left an indelible mark on the game of basketball. LeBron James, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Karl Malone, and Michael Jordan have all secured their places in history, while Kevin Durant continues to solidify his legacy as one of the most prolific scorers in the NBA.
As we watch the NBA All-Time Scoring list evolve in real-time, it’s clear that the game’s history will continue to be shaped by these legendary players, with new stars set to challenge for a spot among the all-time greats.
For real-time updates on the NBA All-Time Scoring leaderboard, visit the NBA’s official stats page.