Isolation scoring is basketball's true test of individual offensive greatness. It's the moment when the playbook closes, the shot clock ticks down, and the ball finds its rightful owner. That means there are no screens. Just a scorer, a defender, and the rim. We have seen many examples of the greatest offensive stars dominating the basketball and the opposition.
Michael Jordan's mid-air improvisations, Kobe Bryant's footwork masterclasses, Kevin Durant's unblockable jumpers, and Allen Iverson's ankle-breaking crossovers have all redefined what's possible in isolation.
But who truly stands alone when the game does too? Let's break it down by naming the best isolation scorers in five tiers. We will be omitting big men because they relied heavily on guards to get them the ball, while the players we focused on could create on their own terms.
Tier 1: Isolation GOAT
Michael Jordan
Michael Jordan redefined isolation scoring, blending artistry with ruthless efficiency. His 63-point playoff performance against the 1986 Celtics remains legendary, prompting Larry Bird to remark that it was "God disguised as Michael Jordan" on the court. Jordan's ability to dominate one-on-one situations, especially in clutch moments, solidified his status as the greatest isolation scorer in NBA history. Oh, and he also won a record 10 scoring titles in case you forgot.
Tier 2: Elite Few
Kobe Bryant, Kevin Durant, Allen Iverson
Kobe Bryant's isolation game was a masterclass in footwork, balance, and determination. His 81-point game in 2006 showcased his ability to take over a game single-handedly, often facing double and triple teams. He also once outscored an entire NBA team through three quarters, a feat that we might never see again. Bryant was the closest to the GOAT, Michael Jordan, meaning he was one of the most feared one-on-one players of his era.
Kevin Durant's combination of height, wingspan, and shooting ability makes him nearly unguardable in isolation. With a career average of 27.2 points per game and shooting splits of 50.2% from the field and 39.0% from three-point range, Durant consistently exploits mismatches. His smooth scoring touch and versatility have made him a four-time scoring champion.
Allen Iverson's quickness and fearless approach allowed him to dominate isolation plays despite his smaller stature. His iconic crossover and ability to finish at the rim made him a nightmare for defenders. Iverson's scoring prowess was a testament to his tenacity and skill, and he also has four scoring titles to his name.
Tier 3: Masters Of The Craft
James Harden, Carmelo Anthony, Kyrie Irving, Tracy McGrady, Damian Lillard
James Harden's isolation scoring is both prolific and efficient. In the 2018-19 season, he averaged an astounding 18.1 isolation points per game, showcasing his ability to create space and draw fouls. Harden's unique style has made him one of the most effective one-on-one players in modern NBA history.
Carmelo Anthony's mid-range game and scoring versatility made him a formidable isolation player. His ability to score from various spots on the court, combined with his strength and footwork, allowed him to excel in one-on-one situations. Anthony's scoring talent was evident throughout his career, even during his later years with the Trail Blazers.
Kyrie Irving's ball-handling skills and finishing ability make him a standout isolation scorer. In the 2024-25 season, he averaged 24.7 points per game with shooting splits of 47.3% from the field and 40.1% from three-point range. Irving's creativity and precision allow him to navigate through defenses with ease, and he is still doing it at a high level today.
Tracy McGrady's combination of size, athleticism, and scoring ability made him a dominant isolation player. His ability to create his own shot and score from anywhere on the court posed significant challenges for defenders. McGrady's scoring bursts, including his famous 13 points in 33 seconds, highlight his isolation prowess.
Damian Lillard's deep shooting range and clutch performances have solidified his reputation as a top isolation scorer. His ability to create space and hit shots from well beyond the arc makes him a constant threat. Lillard's scoring feats, including a 71-point game, underscore his offensive capabilities.
Tier 4: Unstoppable Scorers
LeBron James, Paul Pierce, Larry Bird, Dwyane Wade, Jerry West, Dominique Wilkins, Oscar Robertson, Derrick Rose
LeBron James combines strength, vision, and basketball IQ to excel in isolation when needed. While often facilitating for teammates, his ability to overpower defenders and finish at the rim remains elite. James' versatility allows him to adapt his game to various situations. There is a reason why The King is the game's all-time leading scorer after all.
Paul Pierce's footwork and shooting touch allowed him to excel in isolation. His ability to create space and hit clutch shots was a key aspect of his game. Pierce's scoring prowess was instrumental in his team's success time and time again, and a large part of his isolation skills came from using his powerful body to push off defenders.
Larry Bird's shooting touch and competitive spirit made him a formidable isolation player. His ability to create space and hit clutch shots was a hallmark of his game. Bird's confidence and skill set allowed him to thrive in one-on-one situations. Even when the offensive plays would break down, Bird would just use his high-arcing jumper to generate points against helpless defenders.
Dwyane Wade's quickness and agility enabled him to navigate through defenses effectively. His mid-range game and ability to draw fouls made him a consistent scoring threat. Wade's isolation play was a key component of his offensive arsenal, and he often did his damage without the need of a screen.
Jerry West's scoring ability and clutch performances earned him the nickname "Mr. Clutch." His precise shooting and footwork allowed him to excel in isolation. West's offensive prowess was instrumental in his team's success, and we can't deny the NBA's logo when we speak about offensive prowess.
Dominique Wilkins' athleticism and scoring ability made him a dynamic isolation player. His explosive dunks and mid-range shooting posed challenges for defenders. Wilkins' offensive skills were a highlight of his career, which is why his career average stands at 24.8 points per game.
Oscar Robertson's all-around game included strong isolation scoring. His size and skill allowed him to create mismatches and score efficiently. Robertson's versatility made him a constant offensive threat, and we can't ignore his scoring even if his passing and rebounding often get the praise.
Derrick Rose's speed and agility enabled him to penetrate defenses effectively. His ability to finish at the rim made him a dangerous isolation player. Rose's scoring talent was evident during his MVP season, and the point guard was simply unstoppable. Had he stayed healthy, we would be talking about an all-time great offensive player.
Tier 5: Offensive Specialists
Joe Johnson, Gilbert Arenas, Devin Booker, DeMar DeRozan, Clyde Drexler, Adrian Dantley, Rick Barry, Luka Doncic
Joe Johnson, nicknamed "Iso Joe," was renowned for his isolation scoring ability. His calm demeanor and clutch performances made him a reliable offensive option. Johnson's scoring skills were a significant asset throughout his career, which is why he headlines Tier 5.
Gilbert Arenas' scoring bursts and confidence made him a standout isolation player. His ability to create his own shot and score in bunches posed challenges for defenders. Arenas' offensive talent was so great, he would often get his buckets in any way he wanted. If his career (and prime) lasted longer, he would have likely appeared in Tier 3 at least.
Devin Booker's scoring versatility and shooting touch make him effective in isolation. His ability to create space and hit shots from various spots on the court is impressive. Booker's offensive skills continue to evolve, but based on his 10 completed seasons, he earns his place in Tier 5.
DeMar DeRozan's mid-range game and footwork make him a proficient isolation scorer. His ability to draw fouls and finish at the rim adds to his offensive arsenal. DeRozan's scoring consistency is a key aspect of his game, because he has 12 straight seasons of scoring at least 20 PPG.
Clyde Drexler's athleticism and scoring ability made him a dynamic isolation player. His ability to drive to the basket and finish with authority was notable. Drexler often gets forgotten because he was in Michael Jordan's shadow, but the Hall of Famer was unstoppable at times in isolation situations.
Adrian Dantley's scoring efficiency and footwork made him effective in isolation. The two-time scoring champion's ability to draw fouls and convert free throws added to his scoring prowess. Amazingly, the legendary Utah Jazz star had four seasons scoring at least 30 PPG.
Rick Barry's shooting touch and scoring ability made him a formidable isolation player. His ability to create his own shot and score efficiently was impressive, and he once led the NBA and ABA in scoring in two different seasons.
Luka Doncic's combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ makes him a potent isolation scorer. His ability to create space and hit step-back threes is remarkable. Doncic's offensive versatility continues to grow, and as we continue to see his progress, the Slovenian is on track to be an all-time great offensive star.
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