Harden Surpasses Ray Allen in Career 3-Pointers
In a scintillating performance against the Utah Jazz, James Harden etched his name further into the annals of NBA history. The Los Angeles Clippers guard achieved a milestone, surpassing Ray Allen to clinch the second spot on the all-time career 3-pointers list. Harden's remarkable feat of 2,974 career 3-pointers, achieved in fewer games than Allen, underscores his prowess from beyond the arc and his significant impact on the modern game.
A Game-Changing Performance
Not only did Harden take the second spot, but he also advanced his career total to 2,975 3-pointers during the match-up against the Jazz. Displaying his characteristic blend of skill and tenacity, Harden contributed significantly to the Clippers' victory with an impressive stat line of 20 points, 11 assists, and six rebounds. The Clippers triumphed over the Jazz with a decisive 116-105 win.
Harden's performance was a masterclass in strategic shooting and playmaking, reflecting his enduring talent and his critical role in his team's success. His 3-point shooting, combined with his ability to facilitate and score, offers a versatile arsenal that has seen him rise to stardom and etch his name among the NBA's greats.
The Journey to Second Place
James Harden’s leap to second place in career 3-pointers is no small feat given the era he competes in and the legends he has surpassed. With 8,187 3-point attempts, Harden has exhibited not only exceptional shooting ability but also remarkable longevity and consistency in his craft. His career average of 7.5 3-point attempts per game is a testament to his role as a perennial deep threat.
During his tenure with the Houston Rockets, Harden even pushed his average to a staggering 13.2 attempts per game—a period marked by prolific scoring and shooting exploits. By contrast, Ray Allen, the previous holder of the second spot, averaged 5.7 attempts over his career with a total of 7,429 attempts, showcasing a different era's pace and style of play.
The Legacy of a Champion
At 35, Harden's achievements go beyond just his shooting records. A former NBA Most Valuable Player, Harden's accolades include being a ten-time All-Star, seven All-NBA team selections, three scoring titles, and a place on the NBA's illustrious 75th Anniversary Team. These accomplishments frame a prolific career and reinforce his reputation as one of the game's most complete offensive weapons.
Harden's achievements are even more remarkable when considered in the context of his career consistency. Though the spotlight often shines on his scoring ability, Harden's impact as a facilitator and team catalyst rounds out his legacy. With his latest record, he draws ever closer to the ultimate benchmark held by Stephen Curry, who sits safely atop the all-time list with 3,782 career 3-pointers.
Impact on the Game
The evolution of the NBA has magnified the emphasis on 3-point shooting, and Harden's milestone underscores this transformative shift. His ability to score from long distances with such frequency has not only defined his career but also influenced the strategies that shape the modern NBA game.
As teams and players continue to prioritize the 3-point line, Harden's contributions and records remain a shining example of how an exceptional shooter can impact the game at its highest level. His continued performances add layers to a career that defines an era marked by its focus on spacing and shooting.
With each game, Harden continues to add chapters to an already storied career. For fans and historians alike, watching Harden ascend the ranks of the all-time great shooters is a testament to the evolution of professional basketball and the remarkable athletes who define it.