James Harden reaches 29,000-point plateau as Cavs rip 76ers

Harden, Mitchell and Ellis lead Cleveland to victory over short-handed Philadelphia

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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James Harden scored 21 points and reached the 29,000-career point milestone as the Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the visiting Philadelphia 76ers 115-101 on Monday night. Keon Ellis added 19 points and Donovan Mitchell chipped in 17 points and six assists for the Cavaliers, who led by as many as 25 points. The 76ers were without their top four scorers, including All-Star Tyrese Maxey, who is out with a finger sprain.

Why it matters

Harden's scoring milestone is a significant career achievement, as he moves up the all-time NBA scoring list. The Cavaliers' victory over the short-handed 76ers keeps them in the hunt for a top playoff seed in the Eastern Conference, while the 76ers' injury woes continue to hamper their season.

The details

Harden reached the 29,000-point plateau in the first quarter, becoming the ninth player in NBA history to achieve the feat. The Cavaliers led by as many as 25 points and never trailed after taking the lead late in the first quarter. Cleveland's bench players, including Ellis and Mitchell, provided a big boost, while the 76ers struggled without their top scorers Maxey, Joel Embiid, Paul George and VJ Edgecombe.

  • Harden reached the 29,000-point milestone in the first quarter.
  • The Cavaliers led 56-44 at halftime.
  • Cleveland led 86-66 after three quarters.
  • The game was played on Monday, March 10, 2026.

The players

James Harden

A 17-year NBA veteran and nine-time All-Star who is currently in his first season with the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Keon Ellis

A second-year guard for the Cleveland Cavaliers who was acquired at the trade deadline and provided a scoring boost off the bench.

Donovan Mitchell

An All-Star guard for the Cleveland Cavaliers who scored 17 points and dished out 6 assists in the win.

Tyrese Maxey

The Philadelphia 76ers' All-Star point guard who missed the game due to a finger sprain.

Joel Embiid

The Philadelphia 76ers' star center who missed the game due to a right oblique strain.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.