It was anticipated, in the atmosphere of the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, that there would be a celebration. In fact, it was easy to know if you applied mathematics. James Harden began the game 14 points behind Shaquille O’Neal on the list of the best scorers in history. And 14 points is a figure that Harden has surpassed in all but two games this season.
In case there was any doubt, ‘The Beard’ went into the break with 13 points to his name. It was just a matter of waiting a little longer. With a three-pointer with 9:14 to go in the third quarter, Harden was already ahead of Shaquille O’Neal in the history of the NBA’s top scorers. Ninth. Shaq was left behind with 28,596 in 1,207 games in 19 years. Harden, then, had 28,598 in 1,187 regular season games. He finished the game with 32 points, extending his mark to 28,614 points in 17 seasons.
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“It’s a great honor to surpass Shaquille O’Neal. I’m from Los Angeles and I grew up watching him play and win championships. It’s a blessing to be ahead of the most dominant player the NBA has ever had in its history,” said Harden at the end of the game. His next target will be another giant of the game, Wilt Chamberlain, who is eighth with 31,419 although only achieved in 1,045 games in 14 seasons
Although Harden is a player who is not liked by everyone, we must recognize the enormous career and an almost legendary career. To understand it and put it in perspective, it should be remembered that he is also the second best in three-pointers in NBA history, only behind Stephen Curry, and the twelfth in assists.
Regarding the game, won by the Clippers against the Charlotte Hornets, 117-109, in addition to Harden’s 32 points, the home team also had Kawhi Leonard’s 35. It was the third consecutive victory for the Clippers, who are on the rise, having won 10 of their last 12 games.
