What Is Game Score?
Game Score is a basketball metric created by John Hollinger that provides a single number to summarize a player's performance in a single game. It was designed to roughly align with points scored as its base, then adjust for efficiency and other contributions. A Game Score of 10 represents an average NBA performance, while scores above 40 indicate historically great games.
The metric weighs positive contributions (points, rebounds, assists, steals, blocks) against negative ones (missed shots, missed free throws, turnovers, personal fouls). It is widely used by basketball analysts to quickly compare single-game performances across different players and eras.
Game Score Formula
Benchmarks
| Game Score | Performance Level |
|---|---|
| 40+ | All-time great game |
| 30-40 | Outstanding |
| 20-30 | Excellent |
| 10-20 | Good / Above Average |
| 0-10 | Below Average |
| Below 0 | Poor |
Notable Game Scores in NBA History
- Kobe Bryant's 81-point game (2006) produced a Game Score of 63.8, the second highest ever.
- Wilt Chamberlain's 100-point game (1962) is estimated at approximately 64, though some stats were not tracked.
- The average NBA starter typically produces Game Scores between 12-18 per game.
- An average bench player produces Game Scores of 5-10.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good Game Score?
An average NBA performance is around 10. Anything above 20 is excellent, and above 30 is outstanding. The all-time single-game highs are in the 60+ range, achieved only during historically dominant scoring performances.
Does Game Score account for defense?
Game Score includes steals and blocks as defensive metrics, but it does not capture all defensive contributions like positioning, help defense, or contested shots. It is primarily an offensive-leaning metric, though the inclusion of steals and blocks provides some defensive credit.
Can Game Score be negative?
Yes. A player who misses many shots, commits turnovers, and accumulates fouls without producing positive stats can have a negative Game Score. This typically indicates a very poor overall game performance.