### James Harden's Historic 55-Point Game: A New Clippers Record James Harden, in his 17th NBA season, delivered a stunning performance on November 22, 2025, scoring 55 points to set a new franchise record for the Los Angeles Clippers during their 131-116 victory over the Charlotte Hornets. This remarkable achievement not only helped the Clippers snap a three-game losing streak but also marked the 25th 50-point game of Harden's illustrious career, tying him with Kobe Bryant for third all-time in that category [https://www.si.com/nba/james-harden-hilarious-line-scoring-clippers-record-55-points]. ### Breakdown of Harden's Record-Setting Performance 1. **Game Overview** - Harden's 55 points led the Clippers to a decisive win against the Hornets, who are now on a five-game losing streak [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/nba_roundup_james_harden_scores_clippers-record_55-in_win/s1_17045_43108401]. - The Clippers improved their record to 5-11, while the Hornets fell to 4-12 [https://www.hazard-herald.com/news/national/hardens-club-record-55-points-leads-clippers-over-hornets/article_a4a7e800-3f7f-5cfb-8e3c-4517615c87e6.html]. 2. **Statistical Highlights** - Harden shot 17 of 26 from the field, including 10 of 16 from three-point range, and made 11 of 14 free throws [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/nba_notes_clippers_james_harden_suns_collin_gillespie_wizards/s1_17038_43108428]. - He scored 35 points in the first half, the highest for any player this season [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/nba_roundup_james_harden_scores_clippers-record_55-in_win/s1_17045_43108401]. 3. **Team Contributions** - Ivica Zubac added 18 points and nine rebounds, while Brook Lopez and John Collins contributed 11 and 10 points, respectively [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/nba_roundup_james_harden_scores_clippers-record_55_in_win/s1_17045_43108401]. - The Clippers shot 53.5% from the field, showcasing a strong offensive performance [https://www.si.com/nba/james-harden-hilarious-line-scoring-clippers-record-55-points]. ### Supporting Evidence of Harden's Impact - **Franchise Record**: Harden's 55 points surpassed the previous Clippers record of 52 points, set by Hall of Famer Bob McAdoo [https://www.hazard-herald.com/news/national/hardens-club-record-55-points-leads-clippers-over-hornets/article_a4a7e800-3f7f-5cfb-8e3c-4517615c87e6.html]. - **Historical Context**: This performance ties Harden with Nikola Jokic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander for the highest scoring game of the current NBA season [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/nba_roundup_james_harden_scores_clippers-record_55_in_win/s1_17045_43108401]. - **Team Dynamics**: The Clippers' victory was crucial as they had been struggling early in the season, ranking low in both offensive and defensive metrics [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/james_hardens_historic_performance_gives_clippers_something_to_celebrate/s1_13132_43106981]. ### Conclusion: Harden's Masterclass Rejuvenates the Clippers In summary, **James Harden's 55-point explosion not only set a new franchise record but also provided a much-needed boost for the struggling Clippers**. His performance was characterized by exceptional shooting and scoring efficiency, which played a pivotal role in the team's victory over the Hornets. The game not only highlights Harden's enduring talent but also serves as a potential turning point for the Clippers as they aim to improve their season record. 1. Harden's record-setting performance underscores his status as one of the league's elite scorers. 2. The Clippers' overall team effort contributed significantly to the win, showcasing their potential when firing on all cylinders. 3. This victory may signal a shift in momentum for the Clippers as they look to build on this success moving forward [https://www.si.com/nba/james-harden-hilarious-line-scoring-clippers-record-55-points].