Harden scores 50 points, closing in on Kobe's record

James Harden scored 50 points in a game for the 24th time in his career, moving within one of Kobe Bryant for third-most in NBA history. This performance helped the Los Angeles Clippers defeat the Detroit Pistons 123-115. Harden's 50-point game was his first with the Clippers and came in their new arena. He had a strong start, scoring 23 points in the first quarter and finishing with 14 of 24 shooting. The game was attended by former President Barack Obama, who sat near Clippers owner Steve Ballmer. Harden noted their previous meetings but did not get a photo with Obama after the game.