James Harden Climbs 3-Point Ladder
In a significant milestone for his storied career, James Harden surpassed Ray Allen to become the second-highest scorer in the history of the NBA for career 3-pointers made. With 2,974 career 3-pointers, Harden has etched his name a little higher in the annals of basketball greatness, achieving this feat in notably fewer games than Allen. The now 35-year-old guard continues to demonstrate his prowess from beyond the arc, later boosting his total to 2,975 during a recent game against the Utah Jazz.
A Night of Mixed Fortunes
The Los Angeles Clippers faced the Utah Jazz in a compelling matchup that concluded with a 116-105 triumph for the Clippers. Within this contest, Harden's contribution was undeniable. Despite ending on the losing side with his team, his individual performance was noteworthy, contributing 20 points, dishing out 11 assists, and securing six rebounds. Harden's impact on the court remains profound, even if team success varies from game to game.
The Pursuit of Curry
While Harden's achievement deserves acclaim, Stephen Curry still holds the ultimate crown for career 3-pointers, boasting an astounding total of 3,782. For Harden, now in the latter stages of his career, the possibility of reaching Curry's tally is ambitious but not impossible, particularly given his career average of 7.5 3-point attempts per game. This figure is dwarfed by the prolific pace he set during his tenure with the Houston Rockets, where he averaged an impressive 13.2 attempts from deep per game.
A Consistent Sharpshooter
Ray Allen, whom Harden has just surpassed, was a paragon of consistency, averaging 5.7 attempts per game with a career total of 7,429 attempts. Harden, on the other hand, has already amassed 8,187 attempts. The disparity in volume reflects the evolution of the game, where the 3-point shot has become a staple, if not a necessity, in a team's offensive arsenal.
A Decorated Career
Harden's career is not just defined by his shooting acumen. He has amassed an enviable list of accolades in his time in the NBA. A former NBA Most Valuable Player, Harden has been named to the All-NBA team on seven occasions and has been selected as an All-Star ten times. His scoring prowess is further underscored by three scoring titles, and his place in basketball history is cemented by his inclusion in the NBA's 75th Anniversary Team.
Maintaining the Legacy
As Harden continues to advance in years, his ability to maintain a high level of performance will be a focus of many. At 35, the professional demands and physical strains of the game challenge even the most seasoned of athletes. Yet, Harden's enduring skill set and basketball IQ reflect a player who has continually adapted and thrived in the ever-evolving landscape of the NBA.
This latest milestone offers just a glimpse of Harden's sustained excellence and influence on the court. As he climbs the ranks of NBA history, the league bears witness not just to his remarkable ability to shoot the basketball, but also to the legacy of one of the most formidable scorers to ever play the game.