On March 2, 1962, Wilt Chamberlain achieved the seemingly impossible: scoring 100 points in a single NBA game. This feat remains an untouchable record, a testament to Chamberlain's unparalleled athleticism and dominance. But beyond the headline-grabbing total, the statistical details of that night are equally astonishing. Let's delve into the specifics of this legendary performance.
What were Wilt Chamberlain's exact stats in his 100-point game?
Wilt Chamberlain's official statistics for his 100-point game against the New York Knicks are as follows:
- Points: 100
- Field Goals Made: 36
- Field Goal Attempts: 63
- Free Throws Made: 28
- Free Throw Attempts: 32
- Rebounds: 25
- Assists: (Statistically unreliable for that era - not officially recorded)
It's crucial to note that the exact assist numbers aren't reliably documented from that era. Record-keeping wasn't as precise as it is today. However, the sheer volume of points and rebounds is more than enough to paint a picture of his dominance.
How many shots did Wilt Chamberlain make in his 100-point game?
Chamberlain made a remarkable 36 field goals out of 63 attempts. This translates to a field goal percentage of approximately 57%, a very respectable number, considering the sheer volume of shots taken and the constant pressure from the Knicks' defense.
How many free throws did Wilt Chamberlain make in his 100-point game?
Wilt sank 28 out of 32 free throws, resulting in an impressive free throw percentage of 87.5%. This consistent free throw shooting played a vital role in accumulating his monumental point total.
What was the final score of the game?
The Philadelphia Warriors (Chamberlain's team) won the game against the New York Knicks with a score of 169-147. While Chamberlain's performance was undeniably spectacular, it's important to remember that his teammates also contributed significantly to the team's victory.
How many points did Wilt Chamberlain average in his career?
Wilt Chamberlain's career scoring average stands at an astounding 30.1 points per game – a testament to his consistent dominance throughout his NBA career. The 100-point game was an exceptional outlier, even by his incredibly high standards.
Why was the game so high-scoring?
Several factors contributed to the game's unusually high score. The pace of play in the 1960s NBA was faster than it is today. Defensive strategies were also different; they were less sophisticated and focused on individual matchups rather than team-oriented schemes. Furthermore, the Knicks' apparent strategy of fouling Chamberlain late in the game led to the many free throws he attempted.
Was Wilt Chamberlain's 100-point game a fluke?
While the 100-point game was a singular event, it wasn't a fluke in the sense that it was entirely consistent with Chamberlain's exceptional talent and physical capabilities. He consistently demonstrated incredible scoring prowess throughout his career, making this feat, while exceptionally high, not entirely unexpected given his abilities.
Wilt Chamberlain's 100-point game remains a legendary moment in basketball history, a testament to an unparalleled athletic achievement that continues to fascinate and inspire awe. The detailed statistics highlight the incredible precision and dominance required to achieve such a feat. This night cemented his place in basketball lore as one of the greatest players to ever grace the court.
