James Harden Surpasses Dominique Wilkins on NBA All-Time Scoring List

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — James Harden scored 21 points Wednesday night, surpassing Dominique Wilkins to claim the 15th spot on the NBA‘s all-time scoring list. The LA Clippers guard achieved the milestone during a dominant 142-90 victory over the Brooklyn Nets at Crypto.com Arena.

Harden, who finished the game with six rebounds and 11 assists, needed just nine points to pass Wilkins’ career total of 26,668 points. The 12-time All-Star now sits at 26,669 career points, trailing only Oscar Robertson (26,710) and Hakeem Olajuwon (26,946) on the scoring leaderboard.

‘Congrats, UNO,’ the Clippers tweeted, referencing Harden’s jersey number, after he surpassed Wilkins. The NBA also acknowledged the achievement, posting, ‘Congrats to [Harden] for moving into 15th on the all-time scoring list!’

The historic night came during a record-breaking performance by the Clippers, who secured their largest margin of victory in franchise history. The 52-point win surpassed their previous record of 50 points, set against the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2022. For the Nets, the loss marked their worst defeat in franchise history, eclipsing a 52-point loss to Houston in 1978.

Harden’s milestone continues his steady climb up the NBA’s scoring ranks this season. The 35-year-old guard has been a key contributor for the Clippers, who currently lead the Pacific Division with a 21-17 record. His consistent performance has silenced critics who questioned the team’s decision to acquire him in the offseason.

‘For as much criticism as James Harden has received throughout the recent years of his career, he’s been everything that the Clippers have needed,’ said Farbod Esnaashari, a 12-year NBA veteran reporter. ‘If LA still had Paul George instead of Harden, the results would not be the same.’

Harden’s achievement comes amid a strong season for the Clippers, who have remained competitive despite Kawhi Leonard‘s minutes restriction. With Harden showing no signs of slowing down, the veteran guard could potentially pass both Robertson and Olajuwon before the season concludes.