In the NBA, scoring 60 points throughout a game is a very difficult feat to achieve. However, there are always some top-level players who have accomplished this goal by only playing three quarters of a game. For example, Harden with 60 points, Kobe with 62 points, and Thompson with 60 points. So the question arises, which of these three has the highest quality?
Harden's 60 Points in Three Quarters
Harden's abilities are undeniable. In terms of historical scorers, he can be compared to the likes of Jordan, Kobe, and McGrady, with a rich array of offensive techniques. Winning three scoring titles with the Rockets is solid evidence of his prowess. In the 19th season against the Hawks at home, Harden scored 60 points using only three quarters, with 23 free throws, making 20 of them, earning 20 points from the line.
Thompson's 60 Points in Three Quarters
Thompson is a top-tier 3D player in the current league. Although not considered a superstar, he is definitely at the star level, having assisted Curry in winning four championships. He can be considered the strongest second-in-command since Pippen, excelling in mid-to-long-range shooting, especially with a single-quarter record of 37 points and 14 three-pointers that are hard for future generations to surpass. In the 16th season against the Pacers, Thompson was in excellent form, taking 33 shots and making 21, including 8 out of 14 three-point attempts, and he only played three quarters to score 60 points.
Kobe's 62 Points in Three Quarters
Kobe has always been known for his scoring ability throughout his career, proficient in both mid-range shooting and three-pointers. Although his shooting percentage is relatively low when compared, it's fair to say that he relied on a high volume of shots to accumulate points. In the 05th season's game between the Lakers and the Mavericks, Kobe took 31 shots, made 18, had a decent three-point shooting rate of 4 out of 10, and also had many opportunities at the free-throw line, making 22 out of 25 attempts, earning 22 points. After just three quarters, Kobe had already scored 62 points.
In terms of quality, Kobe > Thompson = Harden! The defense back then speaks for itself! Even now, Kobe could still do it! But putting Harden back then might not necessarily achieve the same! It's too easy for stars to score nowadays! Thompson and Harden are about the same! Each has their strengths! Still, I lean towards Thompson a bit! Fewer touches! Fewer free throws! Harden scored 20 points from free throws! Moreover, the strength of the opponents faced by the three is also in the order of Kobe > Thompson > Harden! However, Harden's efficiency is higher! In any case, achieving such records is truly remarkable!
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