The Longest NBA Games Ever Played

The NBA is known for its fast-paced, high-energy games that usually last 2-2.5 hours. Despite the typical pace and nature of this level of basketball, there have been exceptional instances where games stretched far beyond this duration, often due to multiple overtimes. These marathon matches tested the players’ endurance and captivated fans with their prolonged drama and excitement. Here, we delve into the five longest NBA games ever played.

5: Chicago Bulls vs. Atlanta Hawks – 4 OT

The most recent entry on this list – on March 1, 2019, the Chicago Bulls and Atlanta Hawks battled it out in a grueling four-overtime game. The matchup, held at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, was a test of stamina and strategy, lasting 3 hours and 35 minutes and joining the list of the longest NBA games ever.

The Bulls eventually triumphed with a score of 168-161. Zach LaVine led the Bulls with 47 points, while Trae Young of the Hawks scored 49 points. This game is remembered not only for its length but also for the incredible performances of the young stars.

4: Atlanta Hawks vs. New York Knicks – 4 OT

Another one of the longest NBA games was an epic encounter involving the Atlanta Hawks on January 29, 2017, against the New York Knicks. This game, played at the Philips Arena, extended into four overtimes and lasted 3 hours and 40 minutes.

The Hawks eventually edged out the Knicks with a 142-139 victory. Paul Millsap played a crucial role for the Hawks, scoring 37 points and grabbing 19 rebounds. The game was marked by numerous lead changes and a relentless back-and-forth battle.

3: Syracuse Nationals vs. Anderson Packers – 4 OT

Going back to the early days of the NBA, the Syracuse Nationals and Anderson Packers engaged in a marathon on November 24, 1949. This four-overtime thriller lasted 3 hours and 48 minutes, showcasing the competitive spirit of the sport early on.

The Nationals secured a narrow 125-123 victory and joined the list of the longest NBA games in basketball history. 

2: Seattle Supersonics vs. Milwaukee Bucks – 5 OT

One of the most memorable long games in NBA history happened on November 9, 1989, between the Seattle Supersonics and the Milwaukee Bucks. This contest extended into five overtimes, pushing the limits of the players’ endurance and the fans’ patience.

The Supersonics eventually emerged victorious in one of the longest NBA games ever with a 155-154 win. Dale Ellis of the Supersonics played an astounding 69 minutes, scoring 53 points. 

1: Indianapolis Olympians vs. Rochester Royals – 6 OT

The longest NBA game of all time ocurred on January 6, 1951, between the Indianapolis Olympians and the Rochester Royals. This extraordinary game went into six overtime, lasting 78 minutes of game time. The Olympians eventually won the game 75-73, marking one of the most remarkable endurance tests in basketball history.

The players, fans and everyone involved experienced a night that would be remembered for its sheer length and the resilience displayed by both teams.

The Significance of Marathon NBA Games

These marathon games are more than just contests; they are events that test the physical and mental limits of the players. They highlight the unpredictability of sports, where a game can extend far beyond its expected duration, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.

The concerted effort required to play through multiple overtime showcases the dedication and athleticism of NBA players.

Multiple factors can contribute to these marathon games. Closely matched teams, strategic plays and occasional mistakes that lead to ties at the end of regulation and subsequent overtimes all play a part. These games become a battle of attrition, where every point is hard-earned, and every play can be decisive.