Harden’s 43 seals Clippers' win and breaks NBA records.
James Harden reminded everyone why he’s one of the most prolific scorers in NBA history with a jaw-dropping 43-point performance against the Washington Wizards. It was Harden’s highest-scoring game since March 2021, and it came in a 121-96 blowout that marked Washington’s 13th consecutive loss.
Harden, who had previously notched a season-high of 29 points, surpassed that mark even before halftime. He capped the second quarter with a standout moment, getting fouled on a three-point attempt at the buzzer and sinking all three free throws. By halftime, Harden had racked up 31 points, leading a 16-2 Clippers run that pushed their lead to 61-44.
His first-half explosion etched his name alongside Clippers legends like Lou Williams and Kawhi Leonard, becoming just the sixth player in franchise history to score 31 points in a single half.
After the game, Harden deflected the spotlight onto his teammates.
“I’m not old, but they make me feel young,” he said. “They push me, we work together, it’s a real team. I’m proud of the guys… A lot of games are gonna be different than others, but the mindset and mentality we have as a unit is very special. I’m proud of this team.”
As if his performance wasn’t already historic, Harden surpassed Kobe Bryant for the most 30-point halves in NBA history. Scoring 31 points in just two quarters is a skill he’s perfected over a 16-year career, often riddled with criticism.
While detractors focus on his playoff struggles or off-court controversies, nights like this remind us why Harden is undeniably one of the greatest scorers in the league.
In his career, James Harden averages 24.1 points, 7.1 assists, and 5.6 rebounds per game on solid efficiency. His ability to both dominate as a scorer and elevate his teammates makes him one of the most complete offensive players of his era.
Even without Kawhi Leonard, Harden has led the Clippers to a solid 11-8 record, showcasing his leadership on and off the court. The team has found ways to thrive despite missing key players like Leonard and Norman Powell, with Harden’s influence extending to both offense and defense.
The win improved the Clippers’ record to 12-8, defying expectations after the announcement that Kawhi Leonard would miss the start of the season. James Harden has been pivotal for the team, with Clippers coach Ty Lue and the front office surrounding him with complementary two-way players, creating a balanced and competitive roster.
Adding to his accolades, Harden has become one of just four players in NBA history to score 40 or more points in 100 games. Here’s a look at the company he keeps:
Wilt Chamberlain’s dominance is unparalleled, with a staggering 271 40-point games to his name. According to StatMuse, Chamberlain achieved this in just 1,045 games, the fastest among the NBA’s top scorers. His record for most 40-point games in a season—63 during 1961-62—remains untouched.
Michael Jordan, widely considered the GOAT, amassed 173 40-point games during his illustrious career. Despite relentless defensive strategies like the “Jordan Rules,” Jordan’s scoring prowess was unmatched. Notably, even as a veteran with the Wizards, Jordan dropped 51 points in a game.
Kobe Bryant, the late Lakers legend, sits third with 122 40-point games. Inspired by Michael Jordan, Bryant modeled his game after his mentor, often described as Jordan’s “little brother.” His relentless work ethic and scoring ability remain iconic in NBA history.
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Image: © Reggie Hildred-Imagn Images
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