Harden Climbs the All-Time 3-Point Ladder
In a remarkable showcase of long-range precision and longevity, James Harden has etched his name deeper into the annals of NBA history. The prolific guard recently surpassed Ray Allen to secure the second spot on the all-time list for career three-pointers made, reinforcing his legacy as one of the game’s most lethal shooters. Harden accomplished this feat during a clash against the Utah Jazz, a game that also saw the Los Angeles Clippers emerge victorious with a 116-105 win.
A Record-Breaking Milestone
Harden's 2,974th career three-pointer was a watershed moment, elevating him past Ray Allen, the former benchmark for consistent perimeter shooting. What's particularly striking about Harden's achievement is the pace at which he accomplished this. The 35-year-old hit the milestone in fewer games than Allen, highlighting his efficiency and relentless pursuit of excellence from beyond the arc. By the end of that game, Harden added one more to his tally, further cementing his place in history with 2,975 three-pointers.
Stephen Curry remains the all-time leader in three-pointers made, with a staggering record of 3,782. Yet, Harden's relentless pursuit suggests that he might one day close the gap, especially considering his enduring impact on games with his three-point shooting prowess.
The Numbers Game
Delving into the statistics, Harden's journey to second place is underscored by an impressive track record of attempts and successes. Over his career, he averages an assertive 7.5 three-point attempts per game. The eagerness to let fly from beyond the arc was especially pronounced during his tenure with the Houston Rockets, where his shooting average soared to 13.2 attempts per game. In total, Harden has fired 8,187 three-point shots, underscoring his role as a central offensive weapon and his ability to stretch the floor.
In contrast, Ray Allen, revered for his silky smooth shooting touch and clutch performances, averaged a more conservative 5.7 attempts per game over his illustrious career, amassing 7,429 attempts. This disparity highlights the evolution of the game and the increasing emphasis on perimeter shooting in the modern NBA era.
A Career Filled with Accolades
James Harden's career is defined by more than just his shooting acumen. The star guard is a decorated professional, having won an NBA Most Valuable Player award, been selected to seven All-NBA teams, and been named an All-Star an impressive ten times. Additionally, Harden has claimed three scoring titles, further showcasing his offensive excellence. His achievements have also earned him a coveted spot on the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team, celebrating his contributions to the sport.
In the aforementioned game against the Utah Jazz, Harden showcased his all-around abilities, scoring 20 points, dishing out 11 assists, and pulling down six rebounds. This performance epitomizes his dual-threat capability, able to impact the game as both a scorer and a facilitator.
Looking Ahead
As Harden continues to climb the ranks of legendary shooters, the basketball world watches with great anticipation. While Stephen Curry’s record stands tall, Harden’s perseverance and enduring skills could see him inch closer to the coveted top spot. Beyond records, Harden’s career is a testament to his dedication and skill, an enduring legacy that will inspire generations of shooters to come.