One of the most infamous longest losing runs in NBA history occurred during the 2010-2011 season, when the Cleveland Cavaliers suffered a 26-game losing streak. After LeBron James left the team in 2010 to join the Miami Heat, the Cavaliers struggled to find their footing. Without their star player, the team’s performance dramatically declined, culminating in one of the longest losing streaks in NBA history. This painful run finally ended with a victory over the Los Angeles Clippers in February 2011.
Philadelphia 76ers (2013-2014) – 26-Game Losing Streak
The Philadelphia 76ers also hold the unfortunate distinction of enduring a 26-game losing streak, tying the record for the longest losing run in NBA history. This streak occurred during the 2013-2014 season as the Sixers were undergoing a rebuilding process known as “The Process.” The team focused on developing young talent, but the lack of experience led to significant struggles. The streak ended in March 2014 with a win over the Detroit Pistons.
Philadelphia 76ers (2014-2015 & 2015-2016) – 28-Game Losing Streak Over Two Seasons
The 76ers make another appearance on this list with an even longer combined losing streak. Spanning the end of the 2014-2015 season and the beginning of the 2015-2016 season, the team lost 28 consecutive games, setting the NBA record for the longest losing streak that spans multiple seasons. The Sixers continued to suffer growing pains during their rebuild, but eventually, “The Process” paid off with the emergence of stars like Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons.
Charlotte Bobcats (2011-2012) – 23-Game Losing Streak
During the lockout-shortened 2011-2012 season, the Charlotte Bobcats (now the Charlotte Hornets) endured a 23-game losing streak that capped off one of the worst seasons in NBA history. The team finished the season with a 7-59 record, giving them a winning percentage of .106, the worst in NBA history. The losing streak began in March 2012 and extended through the final games of the season.
Vancouver Grizzlies (1995-1996) – 23-Game Losing Streak
The Vancouver Grizzlies, an expansion team in 1995, struggled mightily in their inaugural season. The team suffered a 23-game losing streak, which was part of the growing pains of being a new franchise. The Grizzlies’ streak stretched from February to April of 1996, as they finished their first season with a 15-67 record. Despite the rough start, the franchise eventually relocated to Memphis and became more competitive in later years.