In a historic NBA showdown, James Harden, the prolific scorer for the LA Clippers, etched his name into the annals of basketball history by climbing to the second spot on the all-time 3-point leaderboard. This significant milestone came during a spirited match against the Utah Jazz at the Intuit Dome, where the Clippers claimed a 116-105 victory. Harden, known affectionately as “The Beard,” surpassed the legendary Ray Allen, positioning himself just behind the indomitable Steph Curry.
A Night of Records and Reunions
The evening was not just about records; it also featured heartfelt moments of camaraderie and reflection. Kevin Durant, a former teammate and long-time friend, congratulated Harden via a recorded message, reminiscing about the first 3-pointer Harden made in the league during their time together with the OKC Thunder. “Congrats JH on reaching an amazing accomplishment,” Durant said. “All the work that you put in has paid off. You inspire so many people around the world with how you play.”
Durant’s message highlighted not only their shared history but also the profound personal and professional bonds that have supported their respective journeys in the NBA. “Been a great teammate, a great friend. I love you brother, keep grinding,” Durant added, showcasing the depth of their friendship and mutual respect.
Harden’s Journey to the Top
James Harden’s rise to becoming one of the most formidable shooters in NBA history is a testament to his relentless work ethic and basketball acumen. On the historic night, Harden added 20 points, six rebounds, eleven assists, two steals, and two blocks to his game tally, showing that he remains a versatile and dynamic player.
Reflecting on his career and the milestones achieved, Harden acknowledged the influence of his formative years with the Thunder. “They set the blueprint,” he noted. This foundation paved the way for his success when he was traded to Houston, where he blossomed into a leading figure in the league.
Looking Ahead: The Chase for Curry
While the celebration of surpassing Allen is sweet, the road ahead is still daunting. Harden, with a total of 2,975 3-point shots to his name, now sets his sights on Steph Curry’s record. With Curry showing no signs of slowing down, the friendly competition between two of the NBA’s sharpest shooters is set to captivate basketball fans worldwide.
At 35, Harden’s ambition remains undimmed, and he is on the cusp of another historic achievement: reaching 3,000 career 3-pointers. With just 25 more to go, this milestone could be reached by the end of November, marking another remarkable chapter in an already illustrious career.
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