James Harden Joins Stephen Curry in 3,000 Three-Pointer Milestone

In a remarkable achievement that underscores his exceptional talent, James Harden has officially joined the ranks of NBA legends by reaching the milestone of 3,000 career three-pointers. This accomplishment places him alongside Golden State Warriors superstar Stephen Curry as the only players in NBA history to achieve this feat. Harden reached this significant milestone during the first half of the Los Angeles Clippers’ thrilling 126-122 victory over the Denver Nuggets on Sunday night.

During the game, Harden showcased his scoring prowess by sinking three three-pointers in the first half and adding three more in the second half, ultimately leading the Clippers with an impressive 39 points. Reflecting on his achievement, Harden stated, "Another one of those accomplishments that you never take for granted. The amount of work that I’ve put in — countless days and nights where I put the work in — a lot of people don’t see it but the results happen, so I’m just thankful." This sentiment highlights the dedication and hard work that goes into reaching such a significant milestone.

In addition to his scoring, Harden narrowly missed a triple-double, finishing the game with nine rebounds and 11 assists. This performance capped off a standout week for the 35-year-old guard, who had previously scored 43 points in a road win against the Washington Wizards, marking his highest point total as a Clipper. With this achievement, Harden joins the elite company of basketball greats like Wilt Chamberlain, Kobe Bryant, and Michael Jordan, who have also recorded 100 career games with 40 or more points.

Nuggets coach Michael Malone praised Harden's performance, noting, "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.’" This statement reflects the respect Harden commands on the court, even as he takes on a more significant role with the Clippers in the absence of superstar Kawhi Leonard, who is still recovering from knee surgery.

Harden's ability to adapt to his new role has been crucial for the Clippers, especially with Paul George's departure in the offseason. He has stepped up to carry a heavier offensive load, demonstrating flashes of the prolific scoring ability he displayed during his time with the Houston Rockets. Malone acknowledged Harden's growth as a player, stating, "He makes almost every key decision for their offense. He can beat you with his playmaking as well, and that shows you the talent, that shows you the quality of his game, where he’s not solely the scorer." This versatility is a testament to Harden's evolution as a player.

Moreover, Harden is not just focused on his own performance; he is also taking on the role of mentor for the younger players on the team. He expressed his comfort in this position, saying, "It’s easy for me just because I’ve been in this situation for a lot of my NBA career. Just helping guys as much as I can to where it makes the game a lot easier for them. It’s really fun." This willingness to guide his teammates speaks volumes about his character and leadership qualities.

Teammate Norman Powell echoed this sentiment, stating that playing alongside Harden is a joy because of his ability to facilitate plays. Powell remarked, "It’s difficult to see from afar, but on the floor knowing when to attack, knowing when to get his shot off, when to get the guys open, the pass that he makes. He knows how to get guys open and to get the most out of the team." This highlights the importance of teamwork and communication in basketball, where every player’s contribution is vital to the overall success of the team.

James Harden's achievement of reaching 3,000 three-pointers is not just a personal milestone; it is a reflection of his hard work, dedication, and evolution as a player. As he continues to lead the Clippers in the absence of key players, his role as a mentor and playmaker will be crucial for the team's success. Harden's journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, reminding them that with perseverance and commitment, great accomplishments are within reach.