Gary Payton: Top 5 Single Game Performances
Gary Payton's Top 5 Single Game Performances
#1st - Game Score: 41.3, 03/31/2000, vs. SAC
On March 31, 2000, in an NBA game hosted by the Oklahoma City Thunder, Gary Payton delivered a standout performance against the Sacramento Kings. Payton achieved a career-high game score of 41.3, showcasing his exceptional skills on the court. With 35 points, 4 rebounds, 15 assists, and 6 steals, Payton's impact on both ends of the floor was undeniable. His efficient shooting saw him make 15 field goals out of 22 attempts and convert all 3 free throws. Despite the Thunder's victory with a final score of 123 to 108, it was Payton's individual brilliance that stood out as he reached an unmatched peak in his career.
#2nd - Game Score: 40.8, 04/16/2000, vs. HOU
On April 16, 2000, in a home game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Gary Payton delivered a standout performance for the Houston Rockets. Payton's impressive showing encompassed 43 points, 11 rebounds, 7 assists, 4 steals, and 1 block, alongside low turnovers. With a field goal percentage of 54.8%, including 17 successful attempts out of 31, and an 87.5% accuracy from the free-throw line, converting 7 out of 8 shots, Payton demonstrated his prowess on the court. His 5 offensive rebounds and 6 defensive rebounds further exemplified his all-around contribution. Notably, the game score of 40.8 secured a prominent ranking as the second highest in Payton's career. This remarkable performance epitomized Payton's skill and value to the team.
#3rd - Game Score: 39.6, 03/04/2001, vs. MIN
On March 4, 2001, the Minnesota Timberwolves hosted the Oklahoma City Thunder in a thrilling NBA game. With the final score of 119 to 111, Gary Payton delivered a remarkable performance, showcasing his exceptional skills. Payton scored an impressive 44 points, grabbed 7 rebounds, distributed 9 assists, and made 4 steals. This accomplishment ranks as the third-best game score of his career, with a score of 39.6. Payton's accuracy was notable, making 18 of his 30 field goal attempts and sinking 6 of his 9 free throws. Despite his remarkable showing, Payton remained composed, committing just 1 turnover and 2 personal fouls. This game is undoubtedly a standout moment in Payton's illustrious career.
#4th - Game Score: 36.7, 12/27/2001, vs. LAC
On December 27, 2001, the Oklahoma City Thunder took on the LA Clippers in an intense NBA matchup held at the Thunder's home court. The game concluded with a final score of 101 to 90 in favor of the Thunder. One standout player in this game was Gary Payton, who delivered an exceptional performance. Payton showcased his offensive prowess by scoring an impressive 43 points, further bolstered by 8 rebounds and 6 assists. While he didn't record any steals, blocks, or turnovers, his accuracy on the court was notable, making 18 field goals out of 27 attempts and sinking 6 free throws out of 7. Additionally, he grabbed 2 offensive rebounds and 6 defensive rebounds. It's worth mentioning that the game score of 36.7 achieved by Payton during this match ranks as the fourth highest in his career, underscoring his consistent track record of impressive performances.
#5th - Game Score: 36.4, 12/17/1994, vs. ORL
On December 17, 1994, the Oklahoma City Thunder hosted the Orlando Magic in a memorable NBA game. Gary Payton showcased his exceptional skills on that day, leading his team to a resounding victory with a final score of 124 to 84. Payton delivered a standout performance, scoring 31 points, while also contributing 4 rebounds, 7 assists, and an impressive 7 steals. Displaying remarkable efficiency, he made 11 field goals out of 15 attempts and sank 7 free throws out of 8. Additionally, Payton grabbed 3 offensive rebounds and 1 defensive rebound. Despite committing 2 turnovers and 1 personal foul, this game ranks among the top performances of his career with a game score of 36.4, securing the 5th spot.
