James Harden Surpasses Ray Allen in 3-Point Milestone
In an impressive display of skill and longevity, James Harden has ascended to the second spot on the NBA's all-time 3-point shooting list, overtaking Ray Allen with his remarkable 2,974th career 3-pointer. This momentous achievement occurred during a game against the Utah Jazz, showcasing Harden's extraordinary talent and the evolution of the 3-point shot in the modern game.
Notably, Harden reached this milestone in fewer games than it took Ray Allen, emphasizing his prolific contribution to the craft of 3-point shooting. Before the night was over, Harden further cemented his place in history by adding one more 3-pointer to his tally, pushing his career total to 2,975. Yet, it was the Los Angeles Clippers who ultimately celebrated victory, defeating the Jazz with a decisive 116-105 win.
The 3-Point Pioneers
Standing alone at the pinnacle of 3-point mastery is Stephen Curry, whose career total of 3,782 3-pointers continues to lead the NBA record books. Harden, now securely in second place, brings to light the dynamic shifts in how the 3-point game is played. His current average of 7.5 attempts per game speaks volumes about his consistency and the central role of the 3-point shot in today’s game, especially when contrasted with Ray Allen's 5.7 attempts per game throughout his illustrious career.
Harden's tenure with the Houston Rockets highlighted this evolution even further, where he averaged 13.2 3-point attempts per game. It's a testament to his team’s strategy and his own adaptability, as he accumulated a total of 8,187 3-point attempts over the course of his career, well surpassing Allen's 7,429 attempts.
More Than Just a Shooter
At 35, James Harden's accolades go far beyond his 3-point achievements. His career is adorned with personal and professional triumphs, including an NBA Most Valuable Player award, seven selections to the All-NBA team, and ten appearances as an All-Star. Additionally, Harden has earned three scoring titles, underscoring his exceptional ability to put points on the board from all areas of the court. His selection to the NBA's 75th Anniversary Team further underscores his status as one of the greats of the game.
A Well-Rounded Contribution
In the same game against the Jazz, Harden showcased his versatility by scoring 20 points, dishing out 11 assists, and gathering six rebounds. His ability to contribute across various facets of the game underscores the comprehensive skill set he brings, which has been pivotal to his enduring presence as a force in the league.
Harden’s achievements are a reflection not only of his personal dedication and development over his career but also of the changing landscape of the NBA, where the 3-point shot has become a defining trait of modern teams' offensive strategies. As he continues to play, fans and analysts alike will undoubtedly keep their eyes on where his 3-point journey will ultimately lead.