By Pranav Parlapall

On March 2, 1962, one of the most well-known NBA records was set: Wilt Chamberlain scored 100 points in a single game. With his gifted height of 7 ‘1, 7’ 8 wingspan, and weight of roughly 275 pounds, Chamberlain is considered one of the greatest basketball players in NBA history. 

Many players argue that Wilt Chamberlain’s 100-point game was the product of low-level competition and his physical superiority over other players. While this is true to a certain extent, it doesn’t discredit Chamberlain’s historic night. Chamberlain was unstoppable, dominating throughout his entire 15-year career. However, analyzing his skill level and athleticism, is it still possible for his 100-point game to be beaten? 

Many players have reached beyond the 50, 60, and even 70-point mark, but only one player has come close to beating the 100-point game record—Kobe Bryant. On January 22, 2006, Kobe Bryant, playing for the Lakers, scored an incredible 81 points over the Toronto Raptors, shooting 60% from the field and 53% from the three-point line. He made 28/46 shots in the midrange, 7/13 from the three, and 18/20 free throws. Bryant had a remarkable night, breaking numerous records and putting himself in second place for most points in a game. 

It may seem nearly impossible to beat 100 points in a single game, but there’s a lot to learn from Chamberlain’s record-breaking game. For Chamberlain, surpassing 100 points would have to be done by shooting more than 95 shots and having a 67% shooting percentage from the field. (He made 36/63 shots from the field and 28/32 free throws, shooting 67%.) It would also have to be done in overtime because Chamberlain only reached 100 points at the very last minute. Although the competition wasn’t as high as it is today, Wilt took an astounding 95 shots, which is something most players will never do. 

There are only three players in the NBA who could beat 100 points in a single game—Stephen Curry, Damian Lillard, and Luka Doncic. These three are known for their incredible scoring, especially Steph and Damian. On February 26th, 2023, Lillard scored 71 points, putting himself in eighth place for most points in a single game. He also had 13 three-pointers, the second most in the NBA, tying with Zach LaVine and Stephen Curry. Lillard is most likely going to beat 100 points because he reached 71 points in regulation and didn’t have overtime. However, if the game had double overtime, there is no doubt Lillard would’ve got 100 points. Lillard even mentioned in an interview that some three-pointers rattled in and out and should’ve gone in. 

So yes, it may take years or even decades for Chamberlain’s record to be defeated, but it is possible.