In a historic moment for the NBA, LA Clippers guard James Harden ascended to second place on the league’s all-time 3-pointers made list during Sunday night’s 116-105 victory over the Utah Jazz. The accomplishment, which Harden described as “unbelievable,” solidifies his status as one of the greatest long-range shooters in basketball history.
The milestone came early in the first quarter when Harden drained his 2,974th career 3-pointer, surpassing NBA legend Ray Allen’s mark of 2,973. Harden finished the game with 20 points, 11 assists, and six rebounds, showcasing the all-around brilliance that has defined his illustrious career.
An Unbelievable Journey
Reflecting on the achievement, Harden emphasized the dedication and hard work that brought him to this point. “It’s a testament to the amount of work that I’ve been putting in,” he said. “As I get older and just chip away at an unbelievable career, [I] start to accomplish things like that.”
The 35-year-old star, who was drafted third overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2009, also took a moment to inspire others chasing their dreams. “I just want to give motivation to the youth and every other person that’s chasing a dream to play professional basketball or whatever it is,” Harden said. “It’s an honor.”
The Curry Effect
While Harden now sits alone in second place, he acknowledged the seemingly insurmountable lead held by Golden State Warriors superstar Stephen Curry. With 3,782 3-pointers and counting, Curry has revolutionized the game and set a standard that Harden believes will stand the test of time.
“I’m one of the most confident guys that we have in this league, but no, I probably won’t catch Steph. And I don’t think anybody will honestly … he can shoot the s— out the ball.”
James Harden on Stephen Curry’s 3-point record
Harden went on to explain the unique challenges of chasing down Curry, noting the evolution of the game and the Warriors star’s unparalleled ability to create and make shots from beyond the arc. “There’s so many different variables to be able to shoot the 3, make shots and do it at an efficient high level,” he said.
Changing the Game
Harden and Curry, both members of the 2009 draft class, have played instrumental roles in shaping the modern NBA. Their prolific outside shooting has inspired a generation of players and forced teams to adapt their strategies to keep pace.
Clippers head coach Ty Lue praised Harden’s ability to score at all three levels and his transition from a shooting guard to a point guard over the course of his career. “That’s a crazy stat, a crazy accomplishment and I’m just happy for him,” Lue said.
The OKC Blueprint
Harden also took time to credit his former Oklahoma City teammates, Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook, for laying the foundation for his success. In a video message, Durant congratulated Harden on the achievement, saying, “You inspire so many people around the world with how you play. You have been a great teammate, a great friend.”
“They set the blueprint. When I got there, they already had the blueprint of how to work, how to be a professional in this league, and so all I did was just fall right in line.”
James Harden on his time with the Oklahoma City Thunder
As Harden continues to etch his name in the record books, his journey serves as a testament to the power of dedication, hard work, and the enduring impact of those who have paved the way. With each passing milestone, he solidifies his place among the greats and inspires the next generation to reach for the stars.
While Harden now sits alone in second place, he acknowledged the seemingly insurmountable lead held by Golden State Warriors superstar Stephen Curry. With 3,782 3-pointers and counting, Curry has revolutionized the game and set a standard that Harden believes will stand the test of time.
“I’m one of the most confident guys that we have in this league, but no, I probably won’t catch Steph. And I don’t think anybody will honestly … he can shoot the s— out the ball.”
James Harden on Stephen Curry’s 3-point record
Harden went on to explain the unique challenges of chasing down Curry, noting the evolution of the game and the Warriors star’s unparalleled ability to create and make shots from beyond the arc. “There’s so many different variables to be able to shoot the 3, make shots and do it at an efficient high level,” he said.
Changing the Game
Harden and Curry, both members of the 2009 draft class, have played instrumental roles in shaping the modern NBA. Their prolific outside shooting has inspired a generation of players and forced teams to adapt their strategies to keep pace.
Clippers head coach Ty Lue praised Harden’s ability to score at all three levels and his transition from a shooting guard to a point guard over the course of his career. “That’s a crazy stat, a crazy accomplishment and I’m just happy for him,” Lue said.
The OKC Blueprint
Harden also took time to credit his former Oklahoma City teammates, Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook, for laying the foundation for his success. In a video message, Durant congratulated Harden on the achievement, saying, “You inspire so many people around the world with how you play. You have been a great teammate, a great friend.”
“They set the blueprint. When I got there, they already had the blueprint of how to work, how to be a professional in this league, and so all I did was just fall right in line.”
James Harden on his time with the Oklahoma City Thunder
As Harden continues to etch his name in the record books, his journey serves as a testament to the power of dedication, hard work, and the enduring impact of those who have paved the way. With each passing milestone, he solidifies his place among the greats and inspires the next generation to reach for the stars.
