The contest with the fewest combined points in National Basketball Association history occurred on November 22, 1950, when the Fort Wayne Pistons defeated the Minneapolis Lakers 19-18. This game stands as an extreme example of a deliberate strategy employed to shorten the game and limit scoring opportunities for the opponent.
The significance of this historical matchup lies in its demonstration of the early tactical approaches to basketball, where controlling possession and slowing the pace were considered viable methods to secure victory. The event is important in understanding the evolution of offensive and defensive strategies within the league and showcases a stark contrast to the high-scoring, fast-paced game prevalent today. It also highlights a period when the shot clock did not exist, allowing teams to stall offensively for extended periods.
