A Night To Remember
Wilt Chamberlain’s legendary 100-point game on March 2, 1962, stands as one of the most iconic moments in NBA history. Playing for the Philadelphia Warriors against the New York Knicks in Hershey, Pennsylvania, Chamberlain’s performance broke records and left an indelible mark on basketball. Here is a detailed, quarter-by-quarter breakdown of how Chamberlain achieved this monumental feat and let’s relive the special moment together.
| Player | Pos | Min | FGM | FGA | FTM | FTA | Reb | Ast | PF | Pts |
| Wilt Chamberlain | C | 48 | 36 | 63 | 28 | 32 | 25 | 2 | 2 | 100 |
First Quarter: Wilt Chamberlain’s Dominance Begins
Coach McGuire, the Warriors coach has said that there was no specific plan to get Chamberlain 100 points.
In the first quarter, Wilt Chamberlain set the tone with a commanding presence, scoring 23 points. His height, athleticism, and skill were evident as he made numerous layups, dunks, and short-range jumpers. Teammates consistently fed him the ball, allowing Chamberlain to build momentum early in the game.
Second Quarter: Wilt Chamberlain Continues to Score
Chamberlain added 18 points in the second quarter, bringing his halftime total to 41 points. The New York Knicks tried various defensive strategies, including double and triple teams, but Chamberlain’s size and skill made him nearly unstoppable. His teammates kept finding him in scoring positions, and he capitalized on nearly every opportunity.
Third Quarter: Pushing Towards the Record
In the third quarter, the possibility of Chamberlain reaching an unprecedented scoring milestone became clear. He added 28 points, bringing his total to 69 by the end of the quarter. The crowd in Hershey began to buzz with anticipation as they realized they were witnessing history. Chamberlain’s endurance and scoring ability were on full display despite the Knicks’ defensive efforts.
Fourth Quarter: Achieving the 100-Point Milestone
In the final quarter, Chamberlain needed 31 points to reach the 100-point mark. His teammates were determined to help him achieve this historic milestone, focusing on getting him the ball on every possession. Chamberlain scored an incredible 31 points in the fourth quarter, reaching the 100-point mark with less than a minute remaining. The crowd erupted in celebration, and the game was briefly paused to acknowledge Chamberlain’s historic achievement.
The Philadelphia Warriors won the game 169-147, with Chamberlain accounting for nearly 60% of his team’s points. His performance included 36 field goals from 63 attempts and 28 free throws from 32 attempts, showcasing both his scoring ability and efficiency.
Historical Context and Legacy of Wilt Chamberlain’s 100 Point Game
Wilt Chamberlain’s 100-point game is a landmark event in NBA history, highlighting his extraordinary talent and dominance in the league. Chamberlain’s record still stands today, a testament to his scoring prowess and the unique circumstances of the game. The achievement has become a benchmark for scoring excellence and remains a key part of Chamberlain’s legacy.
This historic game also brought attention to the importance of teamwork, individual brilliance, and evolving basketball strategies. Chamberlain’s 100-point game is not just a record but a symbol of the heights that can be reached in professional basketball.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Wilt Chamberlain’s 100 Point Game
Wilt Chamberlain’s 100-point game is a cornerstone of NBA history, representing one of the greatest individual performances ever seen on a basketball court. His quarter-by-quarter dominance against the New York Knicks on that historic night in Hershey is a story of perseverance, skill, and athletic greatness. Chamberlain’s record continues to inspire players and fans, reminding everyone of the incredible possibilities within the game of basketball.