James Harden delivered a standout performance, leading the Los Angeles Clippers to a 133-127 double-overtime victory over the Dallas Mavericks in NBA Cup action on Friday night. The former MVP logged a career-high 51 minutes, finishing with 41 points, 14 rebounds, and 11 assists. This marked the first 40-point triple-double in Clippers franchise history.
In an thrilling NBA Cup matchup, James Harden became the first player in Los Angeles Clippers history to achieve a 40-point triple-double. Facing the Dallas Mavericks led by Cooper Flagg, Harden's heroics secured a 133-127 win after double overtime. He played a career-high 51 minutes, contributing 41 points, 14 rebounds, and 11 assists—his eighth triple-double with the Clippers, making him the franchise leader.
Harden's performance also saw him surpass Larry Bird as the oldest player to record a 40-point triple-double. Highlights included contested shots against Flagg, crafty three-pointers, and-one finishes, and a dramatic drive to the basket. Commentators praised his play, with one exclaiming, "James Harden doing James Harden-like things," and another noting, "Late in the game, he dons a cape, he fires a three. Oh, he's Superman!"
Post-game, Harden emphasized team resilience: “We’re still gonna be resilient. We’re still gonna fight. And tonight was one of those cases.” He added, “We got the ability, as long as we continue to fight. Tonight was a good start for us, first game of a long road trip, so we take it one game at a time.” Upon learning of his franchise records, he remained humble: “I just play to try to win games. You put the work in, things happen like that. All glory to God, just keep going, you know? Keep chipping away.”
The victory improved the Clippers to 2-0 in West Group B of the NBA Cup. Their next group game is on Tuesday, November 25, against the Los Angeles Lakers.