The National Basketball Association record for the fewest points scored in a game by one team is 18. This occurred on November 22, 1950, when the Fort Wayne Pistons defeated the Minneapolis Lakers with a score of 19-18.
This historical anomaly highlights a significant shift in basketball strategy and scoring trends over time. The low score reflects a deliberate slowing of the game by the Pistons, employing a stall tactic to limit possessions and, subsequently, the Lakers’ scoring opportunities. While viewed by some as a strategic masterstroke, the game drew significant criticism for its lack of excitement and ultimately contributed to the introduction of the 24-second shot clock to encourage more offensive action.