Harden Climbs the 3-Point Ladder
In a mesmerizing display of skill and tenacity, James Harden etched another milestone into the annals of NBA history. The Los Angeles Clippers guard ascended to second place on the list of all-time career 3-pointers made, surpassing the legendary Ray Allen. Harden’s achievement came in fewer games than Allen, illuminating a prolific career marked by his deep-shooting prowess.
Game Night in Utah
On an October night at the Vivint Arena, as the Clippers squared off against the Utah Jazz, Harden’s sharpshooting was on full display. His 2,974th career 3-pointer nudged him past Allen, a momentous occasion that highlighted not just Harden’s skill but his resilience and longevity in the league. By the game’s end, Harden had notched another 3-pointer, bringing his career total to 2,975. Although the spotlight was on Harden’s milestone, it was the Clippers who emerged victorious with a convincing 116-105 win.
The Unreachable Pinnacle
While Harden now comfortably sits in the second spot, his journey towards the apex of the 3-point hierarchy places him behind only one man: Stephen Curry. The Golden State Warriors' star continues to redefine the game, holding the all-time record with an astonishing 3,782 career 3-pointers. Curry's extraordinary accomplishments underscore an era of basketball where the 3-pointer has become a cornerstone of offensive strategy.
Consistency and Longevity
James Harden’s career is a testament to his consistent excellence. Averaging 7.5 3-point attempts per game, he has demonstrated remarkable stamina and skill throughout his career. During his tenure with the Houston Rockets, Harden took this aspect of his game to another level, averaging an ambitious 13.2 attempts per outing. His career has seen him attempt an impressive total of 8,187 3-pointers, highlighting not just his role as a scorer but as a pivotal figure in the evolution of the game's offensive dynamics.
Ray Allen, a pioneer in his own right, finished his career with an average of 5.7 3-point attempts per game, accumulating 7,429 attempts. Allen's influence on the three-point game paved the way for players like Harden, and surpassing him marks a significant moment in NBA history.
Beyond the Arc
At 35 years old, Harden’s career is far from defined by his three-point shooting alone. An NBA Most Valuable Player award winner, he has been selected to the All-NBA team seven times and has been chosen as an All-Star ten times. His three scoring titles speak to a versatile scoring ability, capable of affecting games beyond the arc. Harden’s accomplishments have earned him a place on the NBA's prestigious 75th Anniversary Team, a testament to his impact and legacy in the league.
A Leader on the Court
In the contest against the Jazz, Harden showcased the well-rounded skill set that has defined his career. He contributed 20 points, delivered 11 assists, and collected six rebounds, showcasing his ability to influence the game in multiple facets. His performance was pivotal in securing the Clippers' triumph, underscoring his role as both a leader and a playmaker for the team.
As Harden continues his NBA journey, his recent achievements underscore his place among the league's greats. Whether it's sinking pivotal 3-pointers or orchestrating plays, Harden remains a figure of inspiration and a benchmark for aspiring players. The journey doesn’t end with passing Ray Allen; rather, it opens new chapters for Harden to explore as he chases the illustrious standards set by the game’s finest.