James Harden scores 27 points in first quarter vs. San Antonio Spurs

Scott Rafferty

James Harden scores 27 points in first quarter vs. San Antonio Spurs image

James Harden had himself a quarter to remember against the San Antonio Spurs on Saturday.

Through 12 minutes of play, the reigning MVP scored 27 points on 7-for-10 shooting from the field, 3-for-4 from 3-point range and 10-for-12 from the free throw line, tying him with Brooklyn Nets guard D'Angelo Russell for the most points scored in a single quarter this season.

It's also the second-most points a player has scored in a quarter in Rockets franchise history.

 

Harden showed off his full repertoire in the opening frame, his most impressive basket coming in the form of his signature step back with the shot clock winding down late in the period.


As impressive as Harden's quarter was, it wasn't quite enough to make the list of the highest scoring quarter in NBA history. Golden State Warriors star Klay Thompson holds the record with 37 points, followed closely by Kevin Love (34), George Gervin (33), Carmelo Anthony (33), David Thompson (32 points) and Wilt Chamberlain (31 points).

Even so, it was another incredible showing from the league's leading scorer.

Scott Rafferty

Scott Rafferty Photo

 

Scott Rafferty is an experienced NBA journalist who first started writing for The Sporting News in 2017. There are few things he appreciates more than a Nikola Jokic no-look pass, Klay Thompson heat check or Giannis Antetokounmpo eurostep. He's a member of the NBA Global team.