The all-time leader for the most missed shots in NBA history isn’t a forgotten benchwarmer; it’s none other than the GOAT of the game himself: LeBron James.
This surprising NBA record doesn’t highlight failure, but reflects the sheer number of scoring attempts the legend has taken throughout his career.
Every miss tells the story of relentless effort, high volume, and unmatched longevity.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 5 players with the most missed field goals, what it means for their careers, and why high misses can still mean massive success.
LeBron James made history in the Lakers’ season opener by surpassing Kobe Bryant for the most missed shots in NBA history, a record Bryant had held since 2014.
NBA Most Missed Shot Leaders (All-Time)
This table gives a quick look at the top 10 players with the most missed shots in NBA history.
| Rank | Player | Total Missed FG | Seasons Played | Notable Facts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | LeBron James | 15,095 | 21+ (active) | Still playing at an elite level |
| 2 | Kobe Bryant* | 14,481 | 20 | Known for volume and clutch shooting |
| 3 | John Havlicek* | 13,417 | 16 | Celtics icon, 8× NBA champion |
| 4 | Elvin Hayes* | 13,296 | 16 | One of the most durable forwards |
| 5 | Karl Malone* | 12,682 | 19 | 2nd all-time in career points |
| 6 | Dirk Nowitzki* | 12,565 | 21 | Greatest European NBA player |
| 7 | Carmelo Anthony* | 12,524 | 19 | 10× All-Star, elite mid-range scorer |
| 8 | Kareem Abdul-Jabbar* | 12,470 | 20 | All-time scoring leader until 2023 |
| 9 | Michael Jordan* | 12,345 | 15 | 6× NBA champion, GOAT contender |
| 10 | Russell Westbrook | 12,063 | 16+ (active) | Triple-double king, high-usage volume shooter |
*Retired player.
Disclaimer: The above data is accurate as of June 2025 and reflects regular-season NBA/ABA statistics.
Spotlight: LeBron James – The Player with the Most Missed Shots
Let’s dive into LeBron James’ career journey and explore how his unique playing style and longevity contributed to his record for most missed shots.
LeBron James Career Overview
LeBron James has accumulated 15,095 missed field goals throughout his career, establishing himself as the leader in this category.
His journey from a high school phenom to NBA royalty spans over two decades of elite basketball.
James entered the league in 2003 as an 18-year-old with enormous expectations.
His ability to maintain peak performance across multiple decades while carrying heavy offensive loads has resulted in this remarkable statistical milestone that reflects both longevity and responsibility.
Reasons For Shot Attempts and Misses
The sheer volume of attempts explains James’ position at the top of this list.
Playing in an era where pace and three-point shooting have increased dramatically, James has taken more shots than most players in history.
His high usage rate means he’s the primary offensive option wherever he plays.
James has spent the majority of his career playing in the most 3-point-heavy era in NBA history, meaning he’s had to hit fewer shots than previous generations to generate the same amount of points.
This context is crucial for understanding his miss totals.
Role as a Primary Scorer
Throughout his career, James has been the go-to scorer for his teams, whether in Cleveland, Miami, or Los Angeles.
This responsibility entails taking difficult shots in crucial moments, often against the league’s top defenders. His willingness to shoulder this burden has led to four championships and countless memorable moments.
Primary scorers naturally accumulate more misses because they’re expected to create offence when nothing else is available.
James’ role as a closer and clutch performer means he’s taken thousands of high-difficulty shots that role players would never attempt.
LeBron James Playing Style
James’ versatility as a player contributes to his miss total.
Unlike specialists who might focus on high-percentage shots, James shoots from all areas of the court.
His ability to play multiple positions means he’s taken everything from post-up attempts to deep three-pointers throughout his career.
His aggressive mindset and confidence in his abilities have never wavered, even during shooting slumps.
This mental approach, combined with his physical tools, has allowed him to maintain offensive aggression throughout his career without losing faith in his shot.
How Long Will LeBron Play?
He has already become the first player in league history to miss over 15,000 shots, just as he was the first to score 40,000 points.
James’ incredible durability and sustained excellence over 21+ seasons naturally lead to higher counting stats across the board.
While most elite players decline or retire by their mid-30s, LeBron continues to compete at an All-Star level into his 40s.
This extended prime has given him more opportunities than almost any player in history—to both make and miss shots.
Why Missing Shots In NBA Isn’t Always A Bad Thing
Missing shots often indicate a player’s willingness to take responsibility for their team’s offence.
The players with the most misses are typically the ones trusted to take the biggest shots in the most important moments.
Volume shooting requires confidence, skill, and the trust of coaches and teammates to continue shooting through inevitable cold streaks.
Players Who Missed the Most Shots In NBA History
Next, we compare LeBron’s missed shot record with other NBA legends, starting with Kobe Bryant, whose calculated shot selection and clutch performances defined an era.
2. Kobe Bryant
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Career FG% | 44.7% |
| Best Shooting Season | 48.0% (2002–03) |
| Worst Shooting Season | 41.6% (2004–05) |
| All-time Scoring Rank | 4th (33,643 points) |
Bryant held the missed shots record before James, finishing with 14,481 career misses.
His “Mamba Mentality” meant taking every shot with complete confidence, regardless of difficulty or game situation.
Bryant’s volume approach and clutch gene made him one of the most feared scorers in NBA history despite his high miss total.
The Lakers icon embraced the philosophy that missing shots was simply part of greatness, famously stating he’d rather go 0-for-30 than 0-for-9.
His willingness to take impossible shots in clutch moments created legendary performances that overshadowed any shooting struggles.
Bryant’s work ethic and dedication to perfecting his craft allowed him to maintain elite scoring throughout two decades.Shoots 44.7% for his career, with his best season at 48.0% in 2002–03.
His worst year was 41.6% in 2004–05, yet he is ranked 4th on the all-time scoring list.
3. John Havlicek
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Career FG% | 43.9% |
| Best Shooting Season | 49.2% (1970–71) |
| Worst Shooting Season | 40.8% (1962–63) |
| All-time Scoring Rank | 15th (26,395 points) |
Havlicek’s 13,417 career misses came during the Celtics’ dynasty years, where his versatility and clutch shooting were crucial.
His ability to play both guard and forward positions meant he took shots from all over the court.
His stamina and work ethic were legendary, allowing him to maintain high usage throughout games.
The Boston legend’s tireless motor and basketball IQ made him one of the most complete players in NBA history across 16 seasons.
His ability to contribute in clutch moments, including his famous steal in the 1965 Eastern Conference Finals, defined championship basketball.
Havlicek’s versatility and team-first mentality helped the Celtics capture eight NBA championships during his career.
Shot 43.9% over his career, peaked at 49.2% in 1970–71, with a low of 40.8% in 1962–63. He ranks 15th all-time in points scored.
4. Elvin Hayes
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Career FG% | 45.2% |
| Best Shooting Season | 48.8% (1978–79) |
| Worst Shooting Season | 42.1% (1968–69) |
| All-time Scoring Rank | 12th (27,313 points) |
Elvin Hayes was the 1st overall pick in the 1968 NBA Draft and accumulated 13,296 career misses during his Hall of Fame career.
His turnaround jumper and aggressive rebounding made him a complete player. Hayes’ durability and consistency kept him productive throughout his 16-year career.
The Big E’s physical style and relentless work ethic helped him dominate both ends of the court during the 1970s and early 1980s.
His signature turnaround jumper from the baseline became one of the most reliable shots in basketball during his prime years.
Hayes’ combination of scoring and rebounding prowess made him one of the most complete power forwards of his era.
Career FG% of 45.2%, best season at 48.8% (1978–79), and worst at 42.1% (1968–69).He stands 12th on the NBA’s all-time scoring list.
5. Karl Malone
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Career FG% | 51.6% |
| Best Shooting Season | 56.0% (1988–89) |
| Worst Shooting Season | 48.6% (2003–04) |
| All-time Scoring Rank | 3rd (36,928 points) |
The Mailman’s 12,682 career misses reflect his incredible consistency and longevity over 19 seasons.
Malone’s post-up game and mid-range shooting made him one of the most reliable scorers in NBA history.
His partnership with John Stockton helped optimise his shot selection throughout his career.
Malone’s durability was legendary, playing in 1,476 regular-season games while maintaining a high usage rate throughout his career.
His pick-and-roll chemistry with Stockton created countless scoring opportunities that few big men could capitalise on as effectively.
The power forward’s ability to score from multiple areas of the court made him nearly impossible to defend consistently.A highly efficient scorer with a 51.6% career FG%, peaking at 56.0% in 1988–89.
Maintained strong shooting even in his worst season at 48.6%, securing 3rd place all-time in points.
6. Dirk Nowitzki
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Career FG% | 47.1% |
| Best Shooting Season | 50.2% (2006–07) |
| Worst Shooting Season | 42.4% (1998–99) |
| All-time Scoring Rank | 6th (31,560 points) |
Nowitzki’s 12,565 career misses came from revolutionising the power forward position with his outside shooting.
His signature one-legged fadeaway was nearly unguardable, and his willingness to shoot from anywhere on the court changed how big men approached offence.
His 2011 championship run showcased his clutch shooting ability.
The German superstar’s unique shooting style and seven-foot frame created matchup nightmares for opposing defences throughout his 21-year career.
His ability to stretch the floor opened up new offensive possibilities for teammates and influenced an entire generation of big men.
Nowitzki’s loyalty to Dallas and consistent excellence made him one of the most beloved international players in NBA history.
Career shooting percentage of 47.1%, best season at 50.2% (2006–07), and a low of 42.4% in 1998–99. He ranks 6th on the all-time scoring list.
7. Carmelo Anthony
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Career FG% | 44.7% |
| Best Shooting Season | 48.2% (2012–13) |
| Worst Shooting Season | 40.4% (2017–18) |
| All-time Scoring Rank | 9th (28,289 points) |
Carmelo Anthony has held the score-first, score-second, and score-third player for most of his career, resulting in 12,524 career misses.
His pure scoring ability and mid-range mastery made him one of the most gifted offensive players of his generation.
Anthony’s Olympic success demonstrated his ability to adapt his game when needed.
The former scoring champion’s smooth shooting stroke and ability to score from all three levels made him one of the most complete offensive players of the 2000s.
His jab-step and pull-up jumper became signature moves that were nearly impossible to defend in isolation situations.
Anthony’s scoring versatility allowed him to remain productive even as his athleticism declined in later years.
Career FG% sits at 44.7%, with a high of 48.2% in 2012–13. His lowest shooting season was 40.4% in 2017–18, and he is 9th all-time in scoring.
8. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Career FG% | 55.9% |
| Best Shooting Season | 60.9% (1972–73) |
| Worst Shooting Season | 50.4% (1988–89) |
| All-time Scoring Rank | 2nd (38,387 points) |
Abdul-Jabbar’s 12,470 career misses accumulated over 20 seasons of dominance.
His signature skyhook was the most reliable shot in NBA history, but his longevity and high usage rate naturally led to significant miss totals.
His consistent excellence made him the all-time scoring leader for nearly four decades.
The legendary centre’s skyhook was virtually unblockable due to his seven-foot-two frame and perfect shooting mechanics.
His intellectual approach to the game and dedication to conditioning allowed him to maintain elite production well into his late thirties.
Abdul-Jabbar’s scoring consistency and championship success across multiple decades cemented his status as one of basketball’s greatest players.
One of the most efficient shooters with 55.9% career FG%, a top season shooting 60.9% in 1972–73, and a worst season at 50.4%. He is 2nd all-time in scoring.
9. Michael Jordan
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Career FG% | 49.7% |
| Best Shooting Season | 53.9% (1989–90) |
| Worst Shooting Season | 41.1% (1995 comeback) |
| All-time Scoring Rank | 5th (32,292 points) |
Jordan accumulated 12,345 missed field goals during his legendary career, ranking ninth on the all-time list.
His approach to shooting was methodical and calculated, rarely taking bad shots but never hesitating when opportunities presented themselves.
Jordan’s competitive fire meant he would continue shooting regardless of early misses in games.
The Bulls legend’s shot selection became increasingly refined throughout his career, particularly after working with coach Phil Jackson.
His ability to elevate his shooting percentage in crucial moments separated him from other volume shooters of his era.
Jordan’s missed shots often came in high-pressure situations where lesser players wouldn’t even attempt the shot. Career FG% of 49.7% with a peak season shooting 53.9% in 1989–90.
Despite a low shooting year at 41.1% during a 1995 comeback, he ranks 5th all-time in scoring.
10. Russell Westbrook
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Career FG% | 43.7% |
| Best Shooting Season | 47.6% (2014–15) |
| Worst Shooting Season | 38.4% (2021–22) |
| All-time Scoring Rank | 25th (24,000+ points) |
Westbrook’s 12,063 career misses reflect his aggressive, high-energy playing style.
His relentless attacking mentality and triple-double achievements came with the territory of high-volume shooting.
Westbrook’s fearless approach to offence has made him one of the most dynamic players in NBA history.
The former MVP’s explosive athleticism and never-back-down attitude created spectacular highlight reels but also led to inconsistent shooting performances.
His ability to fill up the stat sheet with rebounds and assists often overshadowed his shooting struggles throughout his career.
Westbrook’s intensity and competitive drive made him one of the most compelling players to watch during his prime years.
Career FG% of 43.7%, best shooting season at 47.6% in 2014–15, with a low of 38.4% in 2021–22. He is 25th on the all-time scoring list with 24,000+ points.
Why NBA Fans Still Love Volume Shooters?
Volume shooters capture fans’ imagination because they embody fearlessness and confidence.
Their willingness to take big shots in crucial moments creates memorable experiences that define careers and championships.
Fans appreciate players who aren’t afraid to fail, understanding that greatness requires risk-taking and persistent effort despite setbacks.
What’s Common Between The Players Who’ve Missed The Most Shots in the NBA?
The common threads among these players include exceptional longevity, high usage rates, and the trust of their coaches and teammates.
They all possessed the mental fortitude to continue shooting through slumps and the physical tools to maintain elite performance over extended periods.
Most importantly, they all prioritised team success over individual shooting percentages.
Related Read:
Conclusion: LeBron James Has Missed The Most Shots In NBA, a Mark of Relentless Effort and Greatness!
The list of players with the most missed shots reads like a who’s who of NBA legends.
These numbers don’t represent failure; they represent opportunity, responsibility, and the courage to take big shots.
LeBron James becoming the first player to miss 15,000 shots parallels his achievement of being the first to score 40,000 points, showing that volume and greatness often go hand in hand.
When we see players willing to miss shots, we’re witnessing the price of greatness and the commitment required to achieve legendary status in professional basketball.
FAQs
Missing a lot of shots doesn’t necessarily mean a player is ineffective. In fact, most players who lead the league in missed shots are also among the top all-time scorers.
Yes, before LeBron James, Kobe Bryant held the record for the most missed field goals, finishing his career with 14,481 missed shots. Kobe’s high miss total was a result of his aggressive scoring mentality and long NBA career.
LeBron James is still playing in the NBA, so his number of missed field goals will continue to rise as long as he remains active. Given his key role on any team he plays for, he will keep taking — and missing — shots as he adds to both his scoring and miss totals.
No, this record counts only regular-season field goal misses. Playoff misses are tracked separately and not included in the regular-season total.
