Dominique Wilkins
Human Highlight Film (1985-88) · 1985–1988
Wilkins's elite Scoring (90) and strong Inside Scoring (88) define this era.
Trophy Case
1986
Won the title in his best season — 30.3 PPG
1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994
9 selections — 'The Human Highlight Film' in every showcase
1986
Selected in 1986 — 'The Human Highlight Film' at his peak
1985, 1990
1985 and 1990 — the 'Human Highlight Film'
Signature Moments
The Dunk Contest Battle with Jordan — 1988
The 1988 Slam Dunk Contest in Chicago. Dominique threw down windmills, 360s, and power dunks that would have won any other year. Jordan answered with the free-throw line dunk. Dominique scored 145 out of 150 in the finals — and still lost. Many believe he was robbed by hometown judging.
The greatest dunk contest in history. Nique went toe-to-toe with Jordan in Chicago and arguably should have won. The Human Highlight Film earned his name that night.
The Comeback from the Achilles — 1992
Wilkins ruptured his Achilles tendon in January 1992 — a career-ending injury for most players. He came back and averaged 29.9 points per game the next season at age 33. In an era without modern medical science, he willed himself back to elite status through sheer determination.
Torn Achilles at 32, then 30 points a game the next year. Medical science can't explain it. Only heart can.
The Human Highlight Film — 26,668 Points
Wilkins scored 26,668 career points — 14th all-time when he retired. He was a 9-time All-Star and one of the most explosive athletes in NBA history. Every dunk was a highlight. Every game was a show.
They called him the Human Highlight Film because every time he touched the ball, something spectacular might happen. He made basketball look like art.
Career Numbers
Career Games
1,074
Career Points
13th all-time
26,668
Points Per Game
Career average across 1074 games
24.8
Rebounds Per Game
6.7
Season Stats · Human Highlight Film (1985-88)
Engine Attributes
Fan Debate
What's your take on Dominique Wilkins?
Loading debates...