Harden Becomes Second Player to Reach 3,000 Threes
James Harden has solidified his place as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history, achieving a milestone only one other player has reached.
On Sunday night, Harden etched his name into basketball lore by joining Stephen Curry as the second player in NBA history to hit 3,000 career three-pointers.
This achievement came during the LA Clippers’ 126-122 victory over the Denver Nuggets, marking a historic night for the league and basketball fans worldwide.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the game, a casual follower, or someone crunching the NBA odds, this milestone offers plenty to unpack, from Harden’s remarkable career evolution to where his accomplishment fits within the broader context of NBA history. In this blog we’ll take a closer look at Harden’s accomplishment – and why it should matter to NBA fans.
Harden’s Historic Night Against Denver
The milestone came in the first half of Sunday’s game, where Harden netted three three-pointers. He followed that with another three long-range shots in the second half, finishing the night with an impressive 39 points—leading the Clippers to a critical victory over the Nuggets.
But his contributions were not just limited to scoring. While flirting with the triple-double, Harden tallied nine rebounds and 11 assists, showcasing his ability to impact the game in multiple ways.
Harden’s achievement drew comparisons to his past scoring feats with the Houston Rockets, reflecting not just his scoring ability but also his adaptability as a player.
The Road to 3,000 Three-Pointers
Joining Golden State Warriors’ star Stephen Curry in the exclusive 3,000 three-pointer club is no small feat.
Curry, widely recognized as the greatest shooter in NBA history, set the benchmark for long-range shooting.
Harden’s achievement is a testament to his consistency, resilience, and unparalleled ability to deliver under pressure over 15 seasons in the league.
It’s worth noting that Harden’s style differs significantly from Curry’s. While Curry often dazzles with off-ball movement and quick-release shots, Harden’s three-pointers are more methodical, frequently executed off the dribble in isolation situations.
A Standout Week for Harden
Sunday’s game capped off an extraordinary week for the 35-year-old guard. Earlier in the week, Harden exploded for 43 points—his highest as a Clipper—in a road game victory against the Washington Wizards.
That performance marked Harden’s 100th career 40-point game, making him only the fourth player in NBA history to achieve such a milestone, alongside legends Wilt Chamberlain, Kobe Bryant, and Michael Jordan.
Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone talked about Harden’s recent games and mentioned how Harden showed he can still score big, like when he had a strong first quarter against Washington and proved he can put up 40 points quickly.
Harden’s offensive mastery, coupled with his playmaking ability, has not only reminded fans of his prolific Houston years but also his willingness to adapt to the needs of a Clippers team navigating significant changes this season.
Why This Matters for NBA Fans and Beyond
For basketball enthusiasts, accomplishments like Harden’s serve as milestones in the evolving story of modern basketball.
Fans who follow NBA betting odds can also appreciate the broader implications of these feats—Harden’s recent performances tease more to come for the Clippers, especially in a season where they are navigating major roster adjustments.
Could Harden’s resurgence not just secure wins but push the Clippers into contention?
Taking the Lead in Kawhi Leonard’s Absence
Harden’s leadership has been crucial for the Clippers this season as they attempt to forge ahead without Kawhi Leonard, who has been sidelined with ongoing knee issues. Additionally, with Paul George departing as a free agent, Harden has stepped into a larger offensive and leadership role.
This multidimensional skill set has been critical in enabling the Clippers to maintain a 13-9 record without their superstar players—a testament to Harden’s ability to anchor a team.
Harden’s Legacy Among NBA Greats
Reaching the 3,000 three-pointer threshold places Harden in rare company, further cementing his legacy as one of the most impactful players in NBA history.
Beyond his scoring records, Harden’s ability to transform his game—from a pure scorer in Houston to a point guard at various other stops—demonstrates his basketball IQ and adaptability.
Comparisons to other all-time greats like Curry, Jordan, and Bryant often surface, but Harden’s style of play is uniquely his own.
He redefined the way isolation and step-back threes are perceived in the NBA, influencing a generation of players who now seek to incorporate these moves into their own toolkit.
This Might be Just the Beginning
James Harden’s entry into the 3,000 3-pointer club is more than just a statistical achievement—it’s a celebration of a player who has tirelessly reinvented himself to stay dominant in an increasingly competitive league. With more games to play and chapters to write in his career, Harden’s accomplishment invites us to stay tuned.
