What is the Average NBA Score?
The National Basketball Association (NBA) is known for its high-scoring games, with teams averaging over 114 points per game in the 2022-23 season. But what is the average NBA score, and how has it changed over the years?
Direct Answer:
The average NBA score is 114.7 points per game, which is the ninth-highest figure in the league’s 77 seasons. This represents a jump of 3.7% over last season and a record 282,127 points scored this season, surpassing the previous mark of 273,573 set in 2018-19.
Historical Context:
To understand the significance of the average NBA score, let’s take a look at the league’s history. The NBA has been in existence since 1946, and the average score has fluctuated over the years. Here’s a breakdown of the average NBA score by decade:
| Decade | Average Score |
|---|---|
| 1940s | 94.1 points per game |
| 1950s | 102.3 points per game |
| 1960s | 114.1 points per game |
| 1970s | 107.4 points per game |
| 1980s | 104.5 points per game |
| 1990s | 102.1 points per game |
| 2000s | 98.5 points per game |
| 2010s | 102.3 points per game |
| 2020s | 114.7 points per game |
Factors Contributing to the Increase:
Several factors have contributed to the increase in average NBA score over the years. Here are some key points:
- Three-point shooting: The introduction of the three-point line in the 1979-80 season has led to a significant increase in three-point attempts and makes. This has resulted in more points being scored from beyond the arc.
- Fast-paced offense: Modern NBA teams focus on fast-paced offense, which leads to more possessions and scoring opportunities.
- Improved shooting: Advances in shooting technique and technology have led to improved shooting percentages, resulting in more points being scored.
- Increased scoring from the paint: The NBA has become a more perimeter-oriented league, with teams focusing on scoring from the paint and using their big men as stretch fours and fives.
Notable Scores:
Here are some notable scores in NBA history:
- Detroit vs. Denver (1983): The Pistons and Nuggets combined for 370 points in a triple-overtime game, with Detroit winning 186-184.
- Kobe Bryant’s 81-point game (2006): Bryant scored 81 points against the Toronto Raptors, the second-highest single-game total in NBA history.
- LeBron James’ 50-point games: James has recorded 50-plus points in 14 games over his career, including a 61-point game against the Charlotte Bobcats in 2014.
Comparison to Other Leagues:
The NBA is known for its high-scoring games, but how does it compare to other professional sports leagues? Here’s a comparison of the average score in the NBA, NFL, MLB, and NHL:
| League | Average Score |
|---|---|
| NBA | 114.7 points per game |
| NFL | 43.4 points per game |
| MLB | 8.8 runs per game |
| NHL | 5.5 goals per game |
Conclusion:
The average NBA score has increased significantly over the years, with teams averaging over 114 points per game in the 2022-23 season. This is due to a combination of factors, including three-point shooting, fast-paced offense, improved shooting, and increased scoring from the paint. The NBA is known for its high-scoring games, and this trend is expected to continue in the future.