James Harden Jumps to Ninth on NBA All-Time Scoring List

On a momentous Monday, Los Angeles Clippers star James Harden etched his name further into NBA history by surpassing the legendary Shaquille O'Neal on the league's all-time scoring list. This achievement places Harden at ninth overall, with the iconic Hall of Famer O'Neal now in tenth with a total of 28,596 career points. Harden reached this remarkable milestone during the first half of a game against the Charlotte Hornets, a display of scoring prowess that has become synonymous with his career.

A Legendary Achievement

Passing a player of Shaquille O'Neal's caliber is no small feat. Shaq, widely regarded as one of the most dominant players in NBA history, held the tenth spot with an impressive scoring record that spanned across his illustrious career. O'Neal's nickname of "Diesel" was rightfully earned due to his powerful performances on the court, culminating in his Hall of Fame induction that pays homage to his exceptional career.

Harden is now glancing upwards toward his next target, the great Wilt Chamberlain, who sits eighth on the list with 31,419 points. Chamberlain's legendary scoring ability is often compared to that of Michael Jordan, making the challenge ahead for Harden both significant and daunting.

Harden's Scoring Legacy

Throughout his career, James Harden has been known for his remarkable scoring ability. From 2017 to 2020, he elevated his game to unprecedented heights, averaging over 30 points per game for three consecutive seasons. His apex performance came during the 2018-19 season when he averaged an astonishing 36.1 points per game, a feat accomplished only by two other players in the history of the game: Michael Jordan and Wilt Chamberlain.

Even as he enters his 17th NBA season, Harden continues to perform at a high level. Currently, he is averaging 24.1 points per game over his career, a statistic that reflects his consistent scoring ability despite periods when he played second fiddle to stars like Kevin Durant and Joel Embiid. Presently, Harden's contributions this season have manifested into impressive averages, including 25.6 points, 7.9 assists, and 4.8 rebounds per game.

Current Season Performance

The 2025-26 NBA season initially presented some challenges for the Clippers, as the team struggled to find their rhythm, beginning the season with a disheartening record of 15-23. However, as the season progresses, there are positive signs, largely attributed to Harden’s standout performances. His ability to score and create plays has become essential for the Clippers, who are in a tight race for the playoff spots in the competitive Western Conference.

As the Clippers aim for a playoff berth, Harden's resurgence becomes pivotal. His experience and skill will be crucial for a team looking to bounce back from a rocky start. With Harden stepping up, the Clippers are hopeful of a turnaround in their fortunes as they navigate the rest of the season.

Conclusion

James Harden's journey in the NBA is a testament to his incredible talent and hard work. Surpassing Shaquille O'Neal on the all-time scoring list not only marks a personal milestone for Harden but also underscores his place among the basketball greats. As he chases Wilt Chamberlain, fans and analysts alike will be watching with keen interest. The Clippers' success may hinge on Harden's continued excellence, making each game a must-watch as he ascends the scoring ranks and writes the next chapter of his illustrious career.