On January 22, 2024, NBA history was made as Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers and Karl-Anthony Towns of the Minnesota Timberwolves delivered stunning performances that hadn’t been seen in over 45 years. Embiid became the ninth NBA player to score 70 points in a single game, setting the 76ers’ record in a 133-123 victory over the San Antonio Spurs. Meanwhile, Towns scored 62 points, breaking his own career-high and the Wolves’ record, but Minnesota fell short in a 128-125 loss to the Charlotte Hornets.
These historic feats marked the fourth day in NBA history where two players scored at least 60 points in a single day. The last time this happened was on April 9, 1978, with David Thompson and George Gervin, showcasing the rare and incredible nature of Embiid and Towns’ performances.
Embiid expressed his admiration for Kobe Bryant, whose 81-point game 18 years earlier had inspired him to play basketball. He was humbled to be mentioned in the same conversation as the late Lakers legend. Meanwhile, Towns’ exceptional scoring effort wasn’t enough to secure a win, emphasizing the importance of team success over individual accomplishments.
The significance of these performances was not lost on NBA stars like LeBron James and Kevin Durant, who marveled at the skill and creativity displayed by the league’s elite big men. Even Spurs coach Gregg Popovich acknowledged Embiid’s prowess, highlighting his MVP-worthy status.
Despite the individual brilliance on display, the day emphasized the unpredictability and excitement of NBA basketball, demonstrating the unparalleled talent and skill level within the league.
Historically, only Chamberlain, Baylor, Robinson, Bryant, Booker, Mitchell, Lillard, and now Embiid have reached the 70-point mark in a single game. Embiid’s accomplishment was especially noteworthy as it tied for the 12th highest scoring effort in NBA history and broke Chamberlain’s 76ers team record of 68 points.
The day’s events will be etched in NBA history as a testament to the extraordinary talents of Embiid and Towns, forever remembered as one of the most remarkable days in the league’s storied past.