James Harden Climbs the Ladder of 3-Point Greats
In a performance that further cements his legacy as one of the NBA's elite shooters, James Harden has ascended to the second spot on the all-time list for career 3-pointers made, surpassing the legendary Ray Allen. Harden achieved the milestone in a game against the Utah Jazz, marking his 2,974th career 3-pointer, a feat accomplished in fewer games than Allen managed. By the end of the game, Harden increased his total to 2,975 3-pointers.
A Historic Achievement
Harden's ascent to the second position represents more than just a personal triumph; it highlights the evolution of the game itself, where the 3-point shot has become a central component of today's basketball strategies. Although Harden now stands in the company of legends, Stephen Curry remains perched at the summit with an astounding 3,782 career 3-pointers. Harden's pursuit of Curry's record will be watched with keen interest by fans and analysts alike.
Longevity and Excellence
Throughout his career, Harden has maintained an impressive average of 7.5 3-point attempts per game. This has been influenced significantly by his time with the Houston Rockets, where he averaged a remarkable 13.2 attempts per game. Comparatively, Ray Allen, known for his precise shooting, averaged 5.7 3-point attempts per game, completing his career with 7,429 attempts. Harden's current tally of attempts stands at 8,187, showcasing his significant volume of play and consistency from beyond the arc.
Performance Against the Jazz
In the game against the Utah Jazz, while marking his historic achievement, Harden delivered a robust performance, scoring 20 points, dishing out 11 assists, and collecting six rebounds. Despite his individual accomplishments, the game also underlined the collective strength of the Los Angeles Clippers, who secured a 116-105 victory over the Jazz.
Legacy Building
Beyond his 3-point prowess, Harden's career is decorated with numerous accolades. At 35 years old, he boasts an NBA Most Valuable Player award, has been selected to the All-NBA team seven times, and has been chosen as an All-Star ten times. Adding to his legacy, Harden has claimed three scoring titles, emphasizing his role as a prolific scorer in league history.
Moreover, his contributions to the sport have been recognized with his inclusion in the NBA's 75th Anniversary Team, an honor that reflects his impact and influence in shaping modern basketball.
The Path Ahead
As Harden continues to perform at an elite level, the basketball community will eagerly track his pursuit of further greatness. While Stephen Curry's record remains a challenging target, Harden's current trajectory and experience leave the possibility open. Regardless of whether he overtakes Curry, Harden's place among the all-time greats is indisputable, both through his individual achievements and his transformative effect on the game.
With every 3-pointer, James Harden solidifies his standing in basketball history, paying homage to those who came before him while paving the way for future generations of players inspired by his success and dedication to the sport.