The Most Points Scored In A Single Quarter In NBA History

In the world of professional basketball, some moments stand out for their extraordinary individual performances. Today, we’re exploring the top 14 single-quarter scoring feats in NBA history. These are instances where players showcased remarkable scoring skills, leaving a lasting impact on the game.  

From Klay Thompson’s stunning 37-point quarter to Dirk Nowitzki’s legendary fadeaway shots, let’s journey through these historic moments that define the essence of basketball greatness.

*Only regular season included.

14T. Joe Johnson – 29 Points (3rd Quarter)

In a game between the Brooklyn Nets and the Philadelphia 76ers on December 16, 2013, Joe Johnson showcased his scoring prowess by notching 29 points in the third quarter. The seasoned shooting guard’s offensive outburst highlighted his versatility and ability to create scoring opportunities. Johnson’s performance that night remains a testament to his scoring acumen and clutch playmaking abilities.

However, Johnson’s impact wasn’t confined to his scoring outburst. By the end of the game, he had compiled an outstanding stat line of 37 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists. This well-rounded performance underscored Johnson’s ability to not only score prolifically but also contribute significantly to the rebounding and playmaking aspects of the game.

14T. Dirk Nowitzki – 29 Points (4th Quarter)

On November 3, 2009, Dirk Nowitzki of the Dallas Mavericks had an incredible game against the Utah Jazz. In the fourth quarter, he scored an impressive 29 points, showcasing his famous fadeaway jump shot and accurate shooting. This performance highlighted why Nowitzki is considered one of the greatest power forwards in NBA history.

What made the night even more special was that Nowitzki didn’t stop at 29 points. By the end of the game, he had a total of 40 points and 11 rebounds. This outstanding contribution played a crucial role in Dallas securing the victory. Nowitzki’s ability to take over a game and lead his team to success solidified his legacy as a basketball legend.

14T. Brandon Jennings – 29 Points (4th Quarter)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GNScx9GlZI4

November 14, 2009, marked a memorable night for Brandon Jennings as he erupted for 29 points in the fourth quarter during a clash between the Milwaukee Bucks and the Golden State Warriors. Jennings’ scoring spree, characterized by quick drives to the basket and accurate perimeter shooting, showcased the explosive offensive skills that defined his career.

The culmination of his scoring spectacle saw Jennings finish the game with an impressive 41 points, including a remarkable 7-8 from beyond the arc. Milwaukee secured a thrilling 129-125 victory, with Jennings’ breathtaking performance etching itself into the annals of basketball history.

14T. Joel Embiid – 29 Points (3rd Quarter)

The 2023 NBA season witnessed Joel Embiid making history on November 6. In a game against the Washington Wizards, the Philadelphia 76ers’ star center scored 29 points in the third quarter. Embiid’s dominance in the paint, combined with his outside shooting ability, showcased a versatile offensive skill set that left the Wizards struggling to contain him.

Following the 29-point display in the third quarter, Embiid continued his exceptional showing, finishing the game with remarkable stats: 48 points and 11 rebounds. The 76ers secured a convincing 146-128 victory in a game where Embiid’s dominant play made a significant impact.

14T. Isaiah Thomas – 29 Points (4th Quarter)

Isaiah Thomas was known for his clutch performances in the 4th quarter when he was at the peak of his powers with the Boston Celtics. On December 30, 2016, IT lit up the scoreboard with 29 points to win the game against Miami.

Thomas scored a career-high in the regular season facing the Heat that night, ending the duel with 52 total points and leading the comeback for the Celtics. Boston won that game 117-111 at home, with Isaiah giving the fans a performance for the ages.

14T. James Harden – 29 Points (3rd Quarter)

James Harden, known for his scoring prowess, etched his name into the record books on November 30, 2019. In a game against the Atlanta Hawks, Harden accumulated 29 points in the third quarter, displaying his trademark step-back three-pointers and crafty drives to the rim. This performance was yet another reminder of Harden’s ability to take over a game and put up staggering point totals in a single quarter.

By the end of the game, Harden racked up a whopping 60 points, dished out 8 assists, and nailed 8 three-pointers. The Rockets won convincingly with a score of 158-111, and Harden’s outstanding performance showed why he’s one of the best scorers in the league, helping his team secure a big win.

T8. Kobe Bryant – 30 Points (3rd Quarter)

On November 30, 2006, Bryant went off again for an incredible 30 points in the third quarter against the Utah Jazz, only a season after his demolition of the Dallas Mavericks, showing that the Mamba Mentality was at the peak of its powers.

In the matchup against the Utah Jazz, following another 30-point outburst in the third quarter, Bryant concluded the game with an outstanding total of 52 points, which was his fifth-highest scoring game in the whole 2006-07 season.

T8. Kobe Bryant – 30 Points (3rd Quarter)

Kobe Bryant, a basketball legend, showcased his extraordinary scoring ability on two unforgettable occasions. On December 20, 2005, Bryant erupted for an incredible 30 points in the third quarter, facing the Dallas Mavericks. This standout performance not only demonstrated Bryant’s capability to dominate games but also solidified his legacy as one of the most prolific scorers in NBA history.

In the game against the Dallas Mavericks, after his remarkable third quarter, Kobe Bryant finished with a spectacular stat line of 62 points, highlighting his scoring prowess and the ability to carry his team to victory.

T6. Karl-Anthony Towns – 32 Points (3rd Quarter)

In a standout performance on March 4, 2022, Karl-Anthony Towns showcased his scoring prowess for the Minnesota Timberwolves against the San Antonio Spurs. After an impressive third quarter where he scored 32 points, Towns continued to dominate the game, concluding with an outstanding total of 60 points, 7 rebounds, and 7 three-pointers made.

The Timberwolves secured a hard-fought victory with a final score of 149-139, underscoring Towns’ crucial role in leading his team to success. This extraordinary display not only highlighted Towns’ versatility as a big man but also solidified his reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the league.

T6. David Thompson – 32 Points (1st Quarter)

David Thompson was on a mission during the last game of the 1977-78 season. He was battling Geroge Gervin for the scoring title. In the final game for his Denver Nuggets, Thompson put on a show against the Detroit Pistons.

Thompson dropped 32 points in the first quarter, and he’d finish with an incredible 73 points. Overall, Thompson shot 28-38 from the field, including 17-20 from the free-throw line. 

Incredibly, Thompson’s Nuggets lost 139-137 to the Pistons. Still, Thompson’s performance was one for the ages. There’s a reason why Thompson was Michael Jordan’s favorite player growing up.

T4. Carmelo Anthony – 33 Points (3rd Quarter)

On December 10, 2008, Carmelo Anthony put on a dazzling display for the Denver Nuggets in a game against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Anthony’s third quarter was truly remarkable. He scored an impressive 33 points, tying a legendary San Antonio Spurs player for the most points scored in a quarter.

By the final buzzer, Carmelo Anthony had compiled a noteworthy overall performance, finishing with a total of 45 points for the game. Beyond his scoring, he contributed in other facets of the game, including 11 rebounds. This well-rounded effort was crucial in Denver’s convincing victory, with the final score reading 116-105.

T4. George Gervin – 33 Points (2nd Quarter)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gvOcX7XK9Vc

The Ice Man George Gervin was a lethal scoring machine during his prime. One of the best examples of this occurred on April 9, 1978, the last game of the 1977-78 regular season.

Gervin was dominating the mid-range game while finishing at the rim with his patent finger roll. There was something important at stake on this night, and that was the scoring title was up to grabs with the Denver Nuggets David Thompson.

Yes, Gervin was looking to not only win the scoring title over Thompson, but he looked to take over Thompson’s scoring record in a quarter only a few hours after Thompson set it.

Gervin scored 33 points in the second quarter as his San Antonio Spurs battled the New Orleans Jazz. As for the game, Gervin’s Spurs lost 153-132, but from an individual standpoint, Gervin had a great night.

Not only did Gervin set the mark for the most points in a quarter, but he also won the scoring title over Thompson. Gervin scored 63 points on 23-49 shooting to finish the season with a scoring average of 27.22. Thompson’s incredible 73 points only put him at an average of 27.15 points per game.

Gervin’s performance would stand as the record for nearly 37 years until a certain Splash Brother caught fire.

2. Kevin Love – 34 Points (1st Quarter)

On November 23, 2016, Kevin Love delivered a standout performance for the Cleveland Cavaliers against the Portland Trail Blazers. After an extraordinary first quarter, where he scored an impressive 34 points, Love continued to contribute to his team’s success.

By the conclusion of the game, Kevin Love finished with a remarkable total of 40 points in a game that saw the Cavaliers secure a 137-125 victory over the Trail Blazers. Love’s exceptional scoring prowess played a pivotal role in propelling Cleveland to success, highlighting his significance as a key contributor to the team’s triumph.

1. Klay Thompson – 37 Points (3rd Quarter)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CFfhdIIfEsU

Topping the list is Klay Thompson’s unforgettable performance on January 23, 2015. Playing for the Golden State Warriors against the Sacramento Kings, Thompson exploded for an incredible 37 points in the third quarter. His sharpshooting from beyond the arc and scoring in transition left fans and opponents in awe, solidifying Thompson’s place in NBA history with the highest single-quarter point total ever recorded.

As the game unfolded, Thompson continued to dazzle, ultimately finishing with an incredible total of 52 points, including a remarkable 11 three-pointers. The impact of Thompson’s historic night extended beyond individual accomplishments. The Golden State Warriors secured a convincing 126-101 victory over the Sacramento Kings, underscoring the significance of Thompson’s scoring explosion in the team’s success.