Harden Surpasses a Legend: James Harden has carved out another significant milestone in his illustrious NBA career, surpassing Ray Allen for the second spot on the all-time 3-pointers made list. With his 2,974th career 3-pointer, Harden not only eclipsed Allen's record but did so in fewer games—a testament to his dynamic scoring ability and relentless pursuit of excellence on the court. Harden further solidified his position by adding another three-pointer against the Utah Jazz, bringing his career total to 2,975.
High-Voltage Performance Against Utah: In his latest outing against the Utah Jazz, Harden showcased not just his shooting prowess but also his all-around game. The Los Angeles Clippers emerged victorious with a 116-105 win, a game where Harden contributed significantly, scoring 20 points, dishing out 11 assists, and grabbing six rebounds. His performance was a cornerstone of the Clippers' success on the night, underscoring his role as a critical playmaker and scorer.
The Evolution of a Shooter: James Harden’s journey to the top echelon of NBA shooters is a story of evolution and adaptation. Harden has attempted an impressive 8,187 three-pointers in his career, far outpacing Ray Allen's 7,429 attempts. Harden averages 7.5 three-point attempts per game, but during his tenure with the Houston Rockets, this number surged to a staggering 13.2 attempts per game, reflecting a strategic shift in Harden’s approach to leverage his long-range abilities.
Comparison with Legacy: Despite Harden's milestone, the pinnacle of the three-point mountain remains held by Stephen Curry, who sits comfortably at the top with 3,782 career three-pointers. Curry’s record remains the benchmark for shooters like Harden, who continue to chase these lofty numbers. Ray Allen, revered for his shooting skill, averaged 5.7 three-point attempts per game, highlighting the different eras and styles of basketball that Harden and Allen epitomize.
A Legacy in the Making: Beyond his shooting achievements, Harden's career has been nothing short of monumental. At 35 years of age, Harden's resume boasts an NBA Most Valuable Player award, ten All-Star selections, seven All-NBA team selections, and three scoring titles. His inclusion in the NBA's 75th Anniversary Team cements his status as one of the greats of the game, recognized not just for his scoring but for his overall impact on basketball.
Looking Forward: As Harden continues to add to his tally and chase history, his place among the league's greatest shooters is firmly secured. Each game, each shot, contributes to a narrative of relentless pursuit and dedication to the craft. Whether he eventually overtakes Curry or not, Harden’s career is celebrated not just in numbers but in moments of brilliance that have defined and redefined modern basketball. His journey reflects the spirit of innovation and finesse, continually pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the NBA.
James Harden remains a figure of inspiration and admiration, a beacon of basketball excellence. His achievements are more than mere statistics; they are emblematic of an unyielding drive that has captivated basketball fans worldwide.