Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Key Career Moment of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar made NBA history on April 5, 1984, when he surpassed Wilt Chamberlain to become the league's all-time leading scorer-a record he still holds today. Another defining moment came in the 1985 NBA Finals, where, at age 38, he dominated with 30 points, 17 rebounds, and 8 assists in Game 2, leading the Lakers to a championship and earning Finals MVP honors.
Played in the College Basketball “Game of the Century” - the first NCAA regular season game broadcast nationwide in prime time Lost Only 2 Games During 4-year College Career .
He was unstoppable-his skyhook was a cheat code, said Magic Johnson.This cemented his status as one of basketball's greatest winners.
Unique Skill of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's signature skyhook was the most unguardable move in NBA history. Standing 7'2 with an impossible-to-block high release, he perfected this shot over two decades, making it nearly automatic.
His footwork, post control, and ability to score over either shoulder made him the most efficient scorer of his era.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's Stats
- 38,387 career points (NBA all-time leader)
- 6 NBA champion (1971, 1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, 1988)
- 6 MVP (most in NBA history)
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's Legacy in the NBA
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's impact on basketball transcends statistics.
A cultural icon and activist, he redefined longevity in the NBA, playing 20 seasons at an elite level. His skyhook influenced generations of big men, while his intellectual approach to the game set a standard for professionalism.
A unique fact: He wore goggles after a scratched cornea in 1968-later making them part of his iconic look. Today, his legacy lives on as the NBA's all-time scoring leader and a global ambassador for the sport.
At the time of his retirement at age 42 in , Abdul-Jabbar was the NBA's regular season career leader in points (38,), games played (1,), minutes (57,), field goals made (15,), field goal attempts (28,), blocked shots (3,), defensive rebounds (9,), and personal fouls (4,).