What is the Lowest Scoring NBA Game since 2000?
The National Basketball Association (NBA) is known for its high-scoring games, with teams averaging over 100 points per game in recent seasons. However, there have been instances where teams have struggled to score, resulting in low-scoring games. In this article, we’ll explore the lowest scoring NBA game since 2000.
What is the Lowest Scoring NBA Game since 2000?
The lowest scoring NBA game since 2000 was played on November 9, 2001, between the Milwaukee Bucks and the Minnesota Timberwolves. The game ended with a score of 72-68 in favor of the Bucks. This game was played at the Bradley Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Key Statistics
Here are some key statistics from the game:
- Points: The Bucks scored 72 points, while the Timberwolves scored 68 points.
- Shooting Percentage: The Bucks shot 35.6% from the field, while the Timberwolves shot 34.4%.
- Three-Point Shooting: The Bucks made 4-17 three-pointers (23.5%), while the Timberwolves made 3-15 three-pointers (20%).
- Rebounds: The Bucks had 42 rebounds, while the Timberwolves had 41 rebounds.
- Turnovers: The Bucks had 18 turnovers, while the Timberwolves had 16 turnovers.
Why was the Game so Low-Scoring?
There were several factors that contributed to the low-scoring nature of the game:
- Defensive Effort: Both teams played strong defense, with the Bucks holding the Timberwolves to 34.4% shooting from the field and the Timberwolves holding the Bucks to 35.6% shooting.
- Slow Pace: The game was played at a slow pace, with both teams averaging fewer than 90 possessions per game.
- Turnovers: The Bucks and Timberwolves combined for 34 turnovers, which led to many scoring opportunities for the opposing team.
- Poor Shooting: Both teams struggled to shoot the ball effectively, with the Bucks making only 22-62 shots (35.5%) and the Timberwolves making only 23-67 shots (34.3%).
Other Low-Scoring Games since 2000
While the Bucks-Timberwolves game was the lowest scoring game since 2000, there have been other low-scoring games in the NBA since then. Here are some notable examples:
- 76-71: Philadelphia 76ers vs. Toronto Raptors (March 14, 2002)
- 73-69: Detroit Pistons vs. Milwaukee Bucks (December 11, 2002)
- 72-70: Boston Celtics vs. New Jersey Nets (November 17, 2003)
- 71-69: Los Angeles Lakers vs. San Antonio Spurs (February 24, 2004)
Conclusion
The lowest scoring NBA game since 2000 was played between the Milwaukee Bucks and the Minnesota Timberwolves on November 9, 2001. The game ended with a score of 72-68 in favor of the Bucks. The game was marked by strong defensive efforts, slow pace, turnovers, and poor shooting. While this game was an anomaly, it highlights the importance of defense and discipline in the NBA.