Harden Makes History
On January 12, 2026, James Harden accomplished what many doubted would be possible: he surpassed Shaquille O'Neal on the NBA's all-time scoring list. The LA Clippers guard netted a 3-pointer early in the third quarter against the Charlotte Hornets, bringing his career total to 28,598 points over 1,187 games. Shaquille O'Neal concluded his career with 28,596 points in 1,207 games, proving once again that every point counts in the final tally.
"Each shot, each play—it's all a part of the journey. Surpassing legends fuels my fire to keep pushing for greatness," Harden said after the game.
The Road Ahead
Harden's ascent doesn't stop at Shaq. Up next is the legendary Wilt Chamberlain, who holds the eighth position with 31,419 points amassed over just 1,045 games. As a player in his 17th season, the challenge is steep, but Harden is up for it. He enters this chase averaging 25.6 points per game, his highest average since the 2019-20 season.
Comparing Giants
To put Harden's achievement into context, let's examine the players above him:
- LeBron James – 42,601 points
- Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
- Karl Malone
- Kobe Bryant
- Michael Jordan
- Dirk Nowitzki
- Kevin Durant
With each new game, Harden chips away at this elite list. Despite the intense competition, the spark in his eyes shows he is not deterred. After finishing the recent game with 32 points and 10 assists, it's clear that his scoring is not only prolific but also impactful within the game's framework.
The Duel of Generations
What's intriguing is how Harden's style of play has evolved. Known for his explosive scoring and ball-handling, he has adapted over the years, demonstrating versatility while maintaining the killer instinct to drive towards the basket. As an 11-time All-Star, he also sits comfortably at the second spot on the all-time list for 3-pointers made, just behind Stephen Curry. I'm fascinated by how a player's legacy shapes the narrative of the sport, and Harden's journey is a prime illustration of that evolution.
The Essence of Scoring
Scoring in the NBA transcends mere numbers; it tells a story. Each player's ascent is a reflection of their determination, skill, and sometimes sheer luck. Harden's rise through the ranks gives insight into the heart and hustle that defines basketball at its highest level. As we witness Harden push forward, we can derive lessons from his tenacity.
"Statistics tell a part of the story, but the moments—those are priceless. Every night, I chase not just points but proving I belong among the greats," Harden expressed, while hinting at his goals for the remainder of the season.
Looking Forward
As Harden continues to pile up points, I, for one, am excited to see how far he can climb. With the right team support and his indomitable spirit, who knows? This might just be the beginning of a longer journey up the scoring ladder. One thing is certain: the scoring race is far from static, and I'm here for every pulse-pounding moment.
As I reflect on Harden's emerging legacy, I'm reminded of the amalgam of pressure and responsibility that comes with such lofty achievements, and yet, that's what makes sports enthralling. Stay tuned, as the season unfolds—who knows what records will topple next!
Source: ESPN
Source reference: https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/47595963/james-harden-passes-shaquille-oneal-9th-scoring-list
