Imagine a player who wasn’t even supposed to start, let alone become a scoring legend, now standing on the brink of joining the NBA’s top 10 all-time scorers. That’s James Harden’s story—a tale of defiance, evolution, and sheer determination. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can a player who spent his early years as a benchwarmer, with a physique critics deemed unfit for longevity, truly belong among the likes of Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James? Let’s dive in.
Harden’s journey to this milestone is anything but conventional. Unlike the high-flying, athletically gifted stars who dominated the league, Harden carved his path with ground-level precision. His first three seasons saw him coming off the bench, averaging fewer than 10 points per game. His body, according to skeptics, wasn’t built to endure the grind of nearly two decades in the NBA. Yet, here he is, 17 seasons later, poised to nudge past Carmelo Anthony for the No. 10 spot on the all-time scoring list. When asked about this achievement, Harden’s reaction was as iconic as his signature crossover: “Get outta here.”
But how did he get here? Harden’s rise is a masterclass in adaptability and skill refinement. He thrived in an era defined by spaced floors and isolation plays, mastering the art of creating space, sinking 3-pointers, and drawing fouls with calculated precision. His ability to manipulate defenders with his step-back and crossover moves became the stuff of legend—moves that, as he humbly notes, have now become staples in the game. “I’m not saying I created something,” he says, “but I definitely took it to another level.”
And this is the part most people miss: Harden’s success wasn’t just about scoring. His passing prowess—he’s a two-time assists leader—forced defenses into impossible choices. Double-team him, and he’d find the open man. Guard him one-on-one, and he’d exploit every weakness. At his peak from 2017 to 2020, he was virtually unguardable, the centerpiece of Mike D’Antoni’s revolutionary offense in Houston. D’Antoni’s system, which prioritized quick shots and constant movement, was tailor-made for Harden’s skillset. “He’s a genius,” Harden says of D’Antoni. “I don’t think he gets enough credit for revolutionizing the game.”
Yet, Harden’s path could have been vastly different. Drafted third overall in 2009, he joined an Oklahoma City team already boasting young stars like Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook. While Durant and Westbrook flourished as scoring leaders, Harden was relegated to a role player, averaging just 12 points in his second season. In his first three seasons combined, he scored 2,795 points—a stark contrast to the 2,818 points he tallied in a single season (2018-19) with Houston. “I probably wouldn’t be who I am today if I stayed there,” Harden reflects. “I probably would have a championship, though. Who knows?”
Here’s the controversial question: Would Harden’s legacy be as impactful if he hadn’t been traded to Houston? Or if he hadn’t been paired with D’Antoni? His partnership with the coach not only elevated his game but also cemented his status as a cultural icon—complete with a signature shoe line and viral highlights of defenders left in his wake. But Harden’s impact goes beyond stats. At 6-foot-5 and with limited athleticism, he’s never been the high-flyer dunking over defenders. Instead, he’s relied on finesse, intelligence, and an unshakable confidence in his abilities. “I feel like the ball is going in, no matter what,” he says. “I still feel that way.”
Now, at 36 and on his fifth team, Harden continues to defy expectations, averaging 27 points per game. His longevity, ironically, may be due to his lack of explosive athleticism—his body hasn’t endured the wear and tear of constant leaping. As Clippers coach Ty Lue puts it, “He loves to hoop. He loves to be out there.”
So, where does Harden go from here? He’s set to overtake Shaquille O’Neal for the No. 9 spot this season and could climb even higher in the coming years. But the real question is: How will his legacy be remembered? As a player who defied the odds, redefined scoring, and left an indelible mark on the game? Or as someone who simply benefited from the right circumstances?
What do you think? Does Harden’s inclusion in the top 10 legitimize his legendary status, or is there still room for debate? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
