James Harden has made history by becoming the second player in NBA history to reach 3,000 career three-pointers, joining Golden State’s Stephen Curry in this exclusive club.
Harden achieved this milestone during the first half of the Los Angeles Clippers’ 126-122 victory over the Denver Nuggets on Sunday night. He recorded three three-pointers in each half, finishing the game with 39 points, leading the Clippers to victory.
“Another one of those accomplishments that you never take for granted,” Harden remarked after the game. “The amount of work that I’ve put in — countless days and nights — a lot of people don’t see it, but the results happen, so I’m just thankful.”
In addition to his scoring, Harden narrowly missed a triple-double, contributing nine rebounds and 11 assists. This performance capped off an impressive week for the 35-year-old guard, who scored a season-high 43 points in a road win against the Washington Wizards on Wednesday, marking his 100th career game with 40 or more points. He joins legends Wilt Chamberlain, Kobe Bryant, and Michael Jordan in this elite category.
“He had that first quarter against Washington where he reminded people, ‘Hey, I can still go out here and drop 40 on you real quick,’” noted Nuggets coach Michael Malone.
The Clippers, now 13-9, have been competing without superstar Kawhi Leonard, who is sidelined this season due to ongoing inflammation in his surgically repaired right knee. In Leonard’s absence and with Paul George departing as a free agent, Harden has taken on a heavier offensive role. His recent performances have drawn comparisons to his prolific scoring days with the Houston Rockets.
Malone praised Harden’s evolution as a player, highlighting his ability to make key decisions as a point guard. “He makes almost every key decision for their offense,” Malone said. “He can beat you with his playmaking as well, which shows the quality of his game; he’s not solely a scorer.”
Harden is also stepping into a mentorship role for the Clippers’ younger players, a responsibility he embraces. “It’s easy for me just because I’ve been in this situation for a lot of my NBA career,” he explained. “I’m just helping guys as much as I can to make the game easier for them. It’s really fun.”
Teammate Norman Powell expressed appreciation for Harden’s playmaking abilities, saying, “It’s difficult to see from afar, but on the floor, knowing when to attack, when to get his shot off, and when to get guys open is crucial. He knows how to get guys open and maximize the team’s potential.”
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