Basketball Reference Blog

Win-Loss Records of the NBA’s All-Time Leading Scorers

Posted by Vivek Singh on August 9, 2024

(last updated on October 18, 2025)

The legacies of the NBA’s all-time leading scorers extend far beyond their jaw-dropping point totals. These basketball legends not only dazzled fans with their scoring abilities but also shaped the fortunes of their teams. This article delves into the NBA win/loss records of these iconic players, revealing how their scoring feats influenced their teams’ successes and struggles, offering a captivating glimpse into their enduring impact on the game.

LeBron James

Photo of LeBron James

LeBron James

LeBron Raymone James ▪ Instagram: kingjames

(King James, LBJ, Chosen One, Bron-Bron, The Little Emperor, The Akron Hammer, L-Train, Benjamin Buckets, Captain LeMerica)

Position: Small Forward, Power Forward, Point Guard, Center, and Shooting Guard ▪ Shoots: Right

6-9250lb (206cm, 113kg)

Team: Los Angeles Lakers

Born: December 30, 1984 (Age: 40-292d) in Akron, Ohio us

Relatives: Son Bronny James

High School: St. Vincent-St. Mary in Akron, Ohio

Recruiting Rank: 2003 (1)

Draft: Cleveland Cavaliers, 1st round (1st pick, 1st overall), 2003 NBA Draft

NBA Debut: October 29, 2003

Experience: 22 years

SUMMARY

2024-25

Career

G

70

1562

PTS

24.4

27.0

TRB

7.8

7.5

AST

8.2

7.4

FG%

51.3

50.6

FG3%

37.6

34.9

FT%

78.2

73.7

eFG%

57.1

54.8

PER

22.7

26.9

WS

7.7

271.4

LeBron James, a name synonymous with basketball excellence, stands atop the NBA’s all-time scoring list, surpassing legends with his extraordinary scoring ability. Heading into the 2025-26 season, he has amassed 42,184 points, eclipsing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s long-standing record. LeBron’s offensive prowess is only part of the story; his career win/loss record in the regular season further underscores his impact. With 1,009 victories and 553 losses, his win percentage exceeds 64%, a testament to his consistent dominance. Besides scoring, LeBron’s all-around game has redefined the forward position. He ranks in the top 10 for career assists, showcasing his playmaking skills, and his rebounding numbers solidify his versatility.

Notably, LeBron’s durability and longevity set him apart. Playing in a staggering 1,562 regular-season games and maintaining elite performance levels, he has shattered the conventional athlete’s lifespan. His record 21 consecutive All-Star and All-NBA selections reflect his unparalleled influence on the game, cementing his reputation as one of basketball’s greatest figures.


Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Photo of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Pronunciation: \kuh-REEM ab-dool juh-BAR\

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Twitter: kaj33

(Formerly known as Ferdinand Lewis Alcindor Jr.)

(Lew, Cap, Murdock, Big Fella, The Tower of Power)

Position: Center ▪ Shoots: Right

7-2225lb (218cm, 102kg)

Born: April 16, 1947 (Age: 77-039d) in New York, New York us

College: UCLA

High School: Power Memorial in New York, New York

Draft: Milwaukee Bucks, 1st round (1st pick, 1st overall), 1969 NBA Draft

NBA Debut: October 18, 1969

Hall of Fame: Inducted as Player in 1995 (Full List)

Career Length: 20 years

SUMMARY

Career

G

1560

PTS

24.6

TRB

11.2

AST

3.6

FG%

55.9

FG3%

5.6

FT%

72.1

eFG%

55.9

PER

24.6

WS

273.4

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar ranks as the second-highest scorer in NBA history with a remarkable 38,387 points, a record he held for decades before LeBron James surpassed it. His scoring prowess, epitomized by his unstoppable skyhook, left an indelible mark on the league. Kareem’s career win/loss record in the regular season is equally impressive, with 1,074 victories against 486 losses, translating to a win percentage of approximately 69%.

A six-time NBA champion and six-time MVP, he dominated both ends of the court. His 19 All-Star selections and 15 All-NBA team honors underline his consistent excellence. Additionally, Kareem’s defensive contributions were formidable, ranking third all time in blocks with 3,189.

Kareem’s longevity in the NBA is notable, playing 20 seasons and maintaining high performance levels throughout. His career included a then-record 1,560 regular-season games, showcasing his durability.


Karl Malone

Photo of Karl Malone

Karl Malone

Karl Anthony Malone Twitter: TheDeliverer_32

(The Mailman, King Karl)

Position: Power Forward ▪ Shoots: Right

6-9250lb (206cm, 113kg)

Born: July 24, 1963 (Age: 60-306d) in Summerfield, Louisiana us

College: Louisiana Tech

High School: Summerfield in Summerfield, Louisiana

Draft: Utah Jazz, 1st round (13th pick, 13th overall), 1985 NBA Draft

NBA Debut: October 25, 1985

Hall of Fame: Inducted as Player in 2010 (Full List)

Career Length: 19 years

SUMMARY

Career

G

1476

PTS

25.0

TRB

10.1

AST

3.6

FG%

51.6

FG3%

27.4

FT%

74.2

eFG%

51.8

PER

23.9

WS

234.6

Karl Malone, known as “The Mailman,” delivered consistency and scoring prowess throughout his illustrious NBA career, making him the third-highest scorer in league history with 36,928 points. His unparalleled scoring ability was complemented by a commendable regular-season win/loss record, with 952 victories and 524 losses, highlighting a win percentage of around 64%.

Malone’s career spanned 19 seasons, primarily with the Utah Jazz, where his powerful play and durability set him apart. A two-time MVP, Malone was selected to the All-NBA First-Team 11 times, exhibiting his dominance in the power forward position. His partnership with John Stockton formed one of the most prolific duos in NBA history, excelling in the pick-and-roll offense.

Apart from scoring, Malone’s all-around game was formidable. He ranks third in career minutes played and is among the top 10 in rebounds, demonstrating his enduring physical presence on the court. His 14 All-Star selections and two Olympic gold medals further highlight his outstanding career.


Kobe Bryant

Photo of Kobe Bryant

Kobe Bryant

Kobe Bean Bryant Twitter: kobebryant

(Black Mamba, KB24, Vino, Showboat, Little Flying Warrior, The Eighth Man, Lord of the Rings)

Position: Shooting Guard and Small Forward ▪ Shoots: Right

6-6212lb (198cm, 96kg)

Born: August 23, 1978 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania us

Died: January 26, 2020 (Aged 41-156d)

Relatives: Father Joe Bryant; Uncle Chubby Cox

High School: Lower Merion in Ardmore, Pennsylvania

Draft: Charlotte Hornets, 1st round (13th pick, 13th overall), 1996 NBA Draft

NBA Debut: November 3, 1996

Hall of Fame: Inducted as Player in 2020 (Full List)

Career Length: 20 years

SUMMARY

Career

G

1346

PTS

25.0

TRB

5.2

AST

4.7

FG%

44.7

FG3%

32.9

FT%

83.7

eFG%

48.2

PER

22.9

WS

172.7

An iconic figure in NBA history, Kobe Bryant ranks as the fourth-highest scorer with 33,643 points. Known for his relentless drive and scoring ability, Kobe’s impact on the game is profound. His career win/loss record in the regular season includes over 836 victories and 510 losses, reflecting a win percentage of approximately 62%, highlighting his contributions to the Los Angeles Lakers’ success over two decades.

Bryant’s accolades are extensive: five NBA championships, two Finals MVP awards, and a league MVP in 2008 highlight. His 18 All-Star selections, 15 All-NBA Team honors, and 12 All-Defensive Team appearances showcase his all-around excellence. Kobe’s competitive spirit was most evident in his 81-point game in 2006, the second highest in NBA history.

Beyond individual accolades, Kobe’s legacy includes his clutch performances and leadership. He played 1,346 regular-season games and maintained an impressive scoring average of 25 points per game.


Michael Jordan

Photo of Michael Jordan

Michael Jordan

Michael Jeffrey Jordan

(Mike, Air Jordan, M.J., His Airness, Money, Black Cat, Mr. June, G.O.A.T., Superman, Captain Marvel, Black Jesus)

Position: Shooting Guard and Small Forward ▪ Shoots: Right

6-6198lb (198cm, 89kg)

Born: February 17, 1963 (Age: 61-098d) in Brooklyn, New York us

College: UNC

High School: Emsley A. Laney in Wilmington, North Carolina

Draft: Chicago Bulls, 1st round (3rd pick, 3rd overall), 1984 NBA Draft

NBA Debut: October 26, 1984

Hall of Fame: Inducted as Player in 2009 (Full List)

Career Length: 15 years

SUMMARY

Career

G

1072

PTS

30.1

TRB

6.2

AST

5.3

FG%

49.7

FG3%

32.7

FT%

83.5

eFG%

50.9

PER

27.9

WS

214.0

Michael Jordan, revered by some as the greatest basketball player of all time, ranks as the fifth-highest scorer in NBA history with 32,292 points. His incredible career is characterized by an exceptional win/loss record in the regular season, boasting 706 victories against 366 losses, conveying a win percentage of approximately 66%. Jordan’s scoring average of 30.1 points per game remains the highest in NBA history.

Jordan’s influence extends over and above scoring. He led the Chicago Bulls to six NBA championships and earned six Finals MVP awards, marking his dominance in crucial moments. His five regular-season MVP awards and 10 scoring titles highlight his everlasting greatness. Jordan’s defensive prowess was equally notable, with nine All-Defensive First-Team selections and the 1987-88 Defensive Player of the Year award.


Dirk Nowitzki

Photo of Dirk Nowitzki

Dirk Nowitzki

Pronunciation: \Na-VIT-skee\

Dirk Werner Nowitzki Twitter: swish41

(Dirty, Tall Baller from the G, German Race Car, German Jesus)

Position: Power Forward and Center ▪ Shoots: Right

7-0245lb (213cm, 111kg)

Born: June 19, 1978 (Age: 45-341d) in Wurzburg, Germany de

High School: Rontgen Gymnasium in Wurzburg, Germany

Draft: Milwaukee Bucks, 1st round (9th pick, 9th overall), 1998 NBA Draft

NBA Debut: February 5, 1999

Hall of Fame: Inducted as Player in 2023 (Full List)

Career Length: 21 years

SUMMARY

Career

G

1522

PTS

20.7

TRB

7.5

AST

2.4

FG%

47.1

FG3%

38.0

FT%

87.9

eFG%

51.2

PER

22.4

WS

206.3

A trailblazer for Europeans in the NBA, Dirk Nowitzki stands as the sixth-highest scorer in league history with 31,560 points. Known for his signature one-legged fadeaway, Dirk’s offensive prowess was pivotal for the Dallas Mavericks. His career win/loss record in the regular season includes 916 victories and 606 losses, illustrating a solid win percentage of roughly 60%.

Nowitzki’s career is highlighted by numerous accolades. He led the Mavericks to their first NBA championship in 2011, earning Finals MVP honors for his game-winning performances. A 14-time All-Star and a member of the All-NBA Team 12 times, Dirk’s consistency and excellence were evident throughout his 21-season career, all with the Mavericks.

Dirk Nowitzki’s heritage is distinguished by his scoring achievements, leadership, and the transformative influence he had on the game, particularly for international players aspiring to succeed in the NBA.


Wilt Chamberlain

Photo of Wilt Chamberlain

Wilt Chamberlain

Pronunciation: \CHAIM-bur-lin\

Wilton Norman Chamberlain

(Wilt the Stilt, The Big Dipper, Dippy, Dip, The Load, Big Musty, The Record Book, Hook and Ladder, Wiltie, Whip, Whipper, Norm)

Position: Center ▪ Shoots: Right

7-1275lb (216cm, 124kg)

Born: August 21, 1936 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania us

Died: October 12, 1999 (Aged 63-052d)

College: Kansas

High School: Overbrook in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Draft: Philadelphia Warriors, 1st round (3rd pick, 3rd overall), 1959 NBA Draft (territorial selection)

NBA Debut: October 24, 1959

Hall of Fame: Inducted as Player in 1979 (Full List)

Career Length: 14 years

SUMMARY

Career

G

1045

PTS

30.1

TRB

22.9

AST

4.4

FG%

54.0

FT%

51.1

PER

26.2

WS

247.3

Wilt Chamberlain, an NBA legend, is the seventh-highest scorer in league history with 31,419 points. Renowned for his incredible scoring feats, Wilt’s career includes a regular-season win/loss record featuring 672 victories and 373 losses, creating an impressive win percentage of approximately 64%. His scoring average is slightly below MJ for the highest in NBA history (30.12 ppg to 30.07 ppg).

Chamberlain’s career is studded with jaw-dropping records. He famously scored 100 points in a single game in 1962, a record that remains unchallenged. Wilt led the league in scoring seven times and in rebounding 11 times, showcasing his dominance on both ends of the court. His 23,924 career rebounds are the most in NBA history, underscoring his unparalleled physical presence.

In addition to his individual achievements, Chamberlain’s contributions to team success were significant. He won two NBA championships and earned four MVP awards, manifesting his impact on the game.


Kevin Durant

Photo of Kevin Durant

Kevin Durant

Kevin Wayne Durant ▪ Instagram: easymoneysniper

(Durantula, KD, Slim Reaper, Easy Money Sniper, The Servant, Green Room)

Position: Small Forward, Power Forward, and Shooting Guard ▪ Shoots: Right

6-11240lb (211cm, 108kg)

Team: Houston Rockets

Born: September 29, 1988 (Age: 37-019d) in Washington, District of Columbia us

College: Texas

High Schools: National Christian Academy in Fort Washington, Maryland, Oak Hill Academy in Mouth of Wilson, Virginia, Montrose Christian School in Rockville, Maryland

Recruiting Rank: 2006 (2)

Draft: Seattle SuperSonics, 1st round (2nd pick, 2nd overall), 2007 NBA Draft

NBA Debut: October 31, 2007

Experience: 17 years

SUMMARY

2024-25

Career

G

62

1123

PTS

26.6

27.2

TRB

6.0

7.0

AST

4.2

4.4

FG%

52.7

50.2

FG3%

43.0

39.0

FT%

83.9

88.2

eFG%

59.8

55.4

PER

21.2

24.8

WS

5.2

175.4

Don’t look now, but Kevin Durant is already eighth on the NBA’s all-time scoring list. Maybe the most gifted scorer ever, Durant’s 30,571 points put him in a very elite group. A near seven-footer who can score at all three levels is a lethal weapon. The four-time scoring champ, two-time Finals MVP, and 2014 MVP is entering his 18th season in 2025-26. As proven by his 698-425 career win/loss record (a 62% win rate), KD’s teams have fared well when he is filling it up. Now a Houston Rocket, the Slim Reaper is looking to add some more hardware on his mantle before he gets to Springfield.


Julius Erving

Photo of Julius Erving

Julius Erving

Julius Winfield Erving II Twitter: JuliusErving

(Dr. J, The Doctor, J.W., The Claw, Black Moses, Houdini, Little Hawk, Doc, Julie, Super Julius)

Position: Small Forward and Shooting Guard ▪ Shoots: Right

6-7210lb (201cm, 95kg)

Born: February 22, 1950 (Age: 74-093d) in East Meadow, New York us

Relatives: Cousin Jeff Halliburton

College: UMass

High School: Roosevelt in Roosevelt, New York

Draft: Milwaukee Bucks, 1st round (12th pick, 12th overall), 1972 NBA Draft

NBA Debut: October 22, 1976 ▪ ABA Debut: October 15, 1971

Hall of Fame: Inducted as Player in 1993 (Full List)

Career Length: 16 years

SUMMARY

Career

G

1243

PTS

24.2

TRB

8.5

AST

4.2

FG%

50.6

FG3%

29.8

FT%

77.7

eFG%

50.9

PER

23.6

WS

181.1

Julius Erving, affectionately known as “Dr. J”, ranks as the ninth-highest scorer in NBA history with 30,026 points. His electrifying style of play and aerial acrobatics captivated audiences, making him one of basketball’s most iconic figures. Erving’s NBA regular-season win/loss record includes 563 victories and 273 losses, portraying a respectable win percentage of approximately 67%.

Beyond scoring, Dr. J’s impact on the game transcended statistics. He revolutionized the small forward position with his combination of athleticism, creativity, and flair. A three-time ABA MVP and an NBA MVP, Erving’s career accolades include 11 All-Star selections and multiple All-NBA Team honors. His high-flying dunks and decisive contributions in big moments became his trademark.


Moses Malone

Photo of Moses Malone

Moses Malone

Moses Eugene Malone

(Chairman of the Boards, Big Mo, Octobull, Modine)

Position: Center and Power Forward ▪ Shoots: Right

6-10215lb (208cm, 97kg)

Born: March 23, 1955 in Petersburg, Virginia us

Died: September 13, 2015 (Aged 60-174d)

High School: Petersburg in Petersburg, Virginia

NBA Debut: October 21, 1976 ▪ ABA Debut: October 18, 1974

Hall of Fame: Inducted as Player in 2001 (Full List)

Career Length: 21 years

SUMMARY

Career

G

1455

PTS

20.3

TRB

12.3

AST

1.3

FG%

49.5

FG3%

9.6

FT%

76.0

eFG%

49.5

PER

22.0

WS

179.1

Moses Malone, a towering presence in NBA history, holds the distinction of being the tenth-highest scorer with 29,580 points. Renowned for his relentless rebounding and scoring prowess, Malone’s career included a regular-season win/loss record featuring 726 victories and 603 losses, amounting to a win percentage of around 55%.

His ability to consistently perform at a high level contributed to his longevity and sustained success in the league. Additionally, Malone’s efficiency as a scorer, boasting a career field-goal percentage of nearly 50%, underscores his effectiveness in the paint.


FAQs

Who is the all-time leading scorer in history?

LeBron James is the all-time leading scorer in NBA history.

Who’s the winningest NBA player of all time?

Magic Johnson (73.95% career winning percentage) is the winningest NBA player of all time.


Who’s the losingest NBA player of all time?

Hollis Thompson (20% career winning percentage) is the losingest NBA player of all time.

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