In an electrifying game against the Utah Jazz, James Harden solidified his status as one of the greatest marksmen in NBA history by surpassing Ray Allen for the second spot on the all-time list for career 3-pointers made. Harden's historic 2,974th career 3-pointer came in fewer games than it took Allen to achieve his record, underscoring the shooting guard’s prolific scoring ability and his efficiency from beyond the arc. He later went on to notch his 2,975th 3-pointer during the same game, contributing significantly to the Los Angeles Clippers' victory over the Jazz, where they triumphed with a final score of 116-105.
Harden's latest achievement is a testament to his incredible shooting ability and enduring influence on the sport. At 35 years old, he continues to demonstrate skills that have kept fans and analysts talking for more than a decade. Known for his potent offensive prowess, Harden has forever changed the way the game views and utilizes the 3-pointer, a philosophy rooted deeply in the transformative years he spent with the Houston Rockets. During his tenure with Houston, he averaged an impressive 13.2 3-point attempts per game, a strategy that catapulted both him and his team to new offensive heights.
A Legacy of Shooting
Ray Allen, whose career was defined in part by his immaculate shooting from long range, set a high bar with 2,973 career 3-pointers. Allen's career spanned an impressive run with teams like the Milwaukee Bucks, the Seattle SuperSonics, and the Boston Celtics, where his sharp shooting became both a signature and a spectacle. He averaged 5.7 3-point attempts per game, cumulating a total of 7,429 attempts over his career.
Yet, Harden's success did not just lie in surpassing Allen's record but in how he transformed into a playmaker who commands respect and attention from anywhere on the court. With a staggering 8,187 3-point attempts thus far in his career and a personal average of 7.5 attempts per game, Harden’s ambition is evident. Every game is an opportunity for him to leave his mark, both as a scorer and as a leader.
A Consistent Performer
Beyond his exceptional shooting, Harden's accolades speak volumes about his comprehensive skill set. He has been awarded an NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) honor, selected to the All-NBA team seven times, and chosen as an All-Star ten times. Harden has also displayed defensive acumen and passing abilities, as evidenced by his performance against the Jazz, where he scored 20 points, dished out 11 assists, and grabbed six rebounds. His contribution was crucial to the Clippers’ victory, proving once again that his impact on the court is multifaceted.
His inclusion in the NBA's 75th Anniversary Team further cements his place among the pantheon of greats. Such honors not only reflect his individual talents but also his ability to elevate the teams he has played for, lending credibility to his reputation as one of the most versatile players of his generation. With three scoring titles under his belt, Harden consistently demonstrates why he remains a formidable force in the league.
The Unchallenged King
While Harden presently holds the second spot, the all-time leader in career 3-pointers made is Stephen Curry, with a staggering 3,782 3-pointers. Curry's incredible shooting skills have redefined the possibilities of the 3-point shot in modern basketball, and he has been a key figure in popularizing the long-range game style that players like Harden have embraced and adapted.
Curry's unparalleled precision and range make him a unique player in NBA history, and his ability to score from distance allows him to create space and opportunities for teammates, setting a new standard for future generations. Yet, Harden’s current achievement and persistent pursuit of Curry’s record make for a captivating storyline as the league marches forward.
James Harden's journey continues to be a fascinating narrative of growth, adaptability, and excellence. As he keeps adding to his legacy with each game, fans and analysts alike watch eagerly, waiting to see how high he can raise his impressive career total, and perhaps, whether he might eventually challenge the ever-dominant Curry. The NBA thrives on such legendary exploits, and with James Harden active and thriving, the excitement is guaranteed to persist.