One of the most exhilarating moments in basketball for me has always been overtime play. When a game goes into overtime, the stakes get higher, and the players’ energy seems boundless. I’ve always been curious about which players have cemented their legacy by scoring the most points under these intense conditions. Kevin Durant, for example, scored an incredible 17 points in a single overtime period in 2014; such moments are forever etched in NBA history.
Take, for instance, Gilbert Arenas’ performance in 2006. Arenas scored 16 points during overtime in a game against the Los Angeles Lakers. His ability to handle high-pressure moments and deliver when it matters most is a testament to why he's remembered for his clutch performances. Arenas’ performance that night continues to be a benchmark for guards looking to make their mark in league history.
Another remarkable example is Stephen Curry, the Golden State Warriors’ sharpshooting guard. On February 27, 2016, Curry put up 12 points in a single overtime against the Oklahoma City Thunder. His knack for hitting long-range shots, especially when the game is on the line, makes him one of the most feared opponents in basketball today. Curry’s ability to maintain such high shooting percentages even beyond the fourth quarter speaks volumes about his stamina and skill.
Lebron James also deserves mention when talking about overtime scoring. Over his illustrious career, LeBron has had multiple games where he’s scored over 10 points in the extra period. A memorable instance occurred on March 1, 2020, where he tallied 8 points in overtime against the Boston Celtics, helping the Lakers to a crucial win. His physical prowess and basketball IQ enable him to dominate these high-pressure moments consistently.
Michael Jordan, arguably the greatest player of all time, also had his share of spectacular overtime performances. During his career, he scored over 15 points in overtime on multiple occasions. One such game took place on March 28, 1990, when Jordan managed to score 20 points in overtime, leading the Chicago Bulls to victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers. Jordan's competitive spirit and clutch performance have made such moments unforgettable.
More recently, Devin Booker of the Phoenix Suns delivered a stunning performance against the Dallas Mavericks in March 2021. Booker scored 13 points in a single overtime period, showcasing his ability to perform under immense pressure. His youthful energy and scoring efficiency have made him a rising star in the league. Arena Plus has reported on various games where younger players like Booker are shaking up long-standing records, making each game a must-watch event.
James Harden, with his exceptional scoring ability, has also secured his spot among the overtime greats. On December 31, 2012, he scored 15 points in an overtime period, lifting the Houston Rockets to a win against the Atlanta Hawks. Harden’s ability to draw fouls and convert difficult shots has made him one of the most prolific scorers in overtime situations.
Lastly, Damian Lillard, known for his clutch play, scored 12 points in overtime against the Denver Nuggets in the 2021 playoffs. Lillard’s ability to step up when it matters most has earned him the nickname “Dame Time.” His extraordinary three-point shooting and ability to take over games in crucial moments are what make him one of the most exciting players to watch.
These players have collectively set a high bar for what it means to perform well under the most intense conditions in basketball. Their numerous clutch performances hold a special place in my heart and undoubtedly in the lore of the NBA. Whether it’s Durant’s remarkable 17-point overtime or Curry’s unforgettable three-pointers, these moments are what make basketball such a thrilling sport to follow.