James Harden Climbs the 3-Point Ladder
In a remarkable achievement, James Harden has etched his name deeper into the annals of NBA history by surpassing Ray Allen for the second spot on the all-time list of career 3-pointers made. Harden's acumen behind the arc was on full display as he netted his 2,974th 3-pointer, a milestone reached in fewer games than Allen required, before further extending his total during a competitive matchup against the Utah Jazz.
A Historic Night for Harden
Playing against the Utah Jazz, Harden not only reached but also exceeded the landmark figure, wrapping up the game with a career total of 2,975 3-pointers. Despite this personal achievement, it was not enough to change the outcome of the game, as the Los Angeles Clippers secured victory with a score of 116-105. Nevertheless, Harden's accomplishment stands as a testament to his persistent hard work and his evolution into one of the most prolific shooters in NBA history.
Chasing Curry: The 3-Point King
Yet, the pinnacle of the 3-point hierarchy remains held by Stephen Curry, who continues to lead with an impressive tally of 3,782 career 3-pointers. Harden's relentless pursuit keeps him in the conversation among the greats, but closing in on Curry's record requires not only skill but a continuation of the same dedication that has defined his career until now.
A Legacy Etched in 3's
During his illustrious NBA journey, Harden has consistently demonstrated an extraordinary knack for shooting from distance. Averaging 7.5 three-point attempts per game throughout his career, he further displayed his shooting prowess during his tenure with the Houston Rockets, where he averaged a staggering 13.2 attempts per game. In contrast, Ray Allen, known for his precision and elegance behind the arc, averaged 5.7 attempts per game with a career total of 7,429 attempts, underscoring Harden's unique style and sheer volume of attempts.
A Decorated Career
Complementing his shooting achievements, Harden has amassed a resume befitting an NBA legend. At 35, he boasts an impressive collection of honors including an NBA Most Valuable Player award, seven All-NBA Team selections, and ten All-Star appearances. Additionally, he has claimed three scoring titles and holds a cherished place on the NBA's prestigious 75th Anniversary Team.
A Stellar Performance
In the game against the Utah Jazz where he achieved this career milestone, Harden's versatility was on full display. He contributed significantly to his team's effort by scoring 20 points, distributing 11 assists, and securing six rebounds. His ability to influence the game in multiple facets underscores the multifaceted talent that has made him a perennial force in the league.
As Harden continues to play, his influence and impact extend beyond just numbers. His journey leaves an indelible mark on the sport, underscoring the evolution of the modern NBA into a league that values versatility, long-range shooting, and offensive innovation.