NBA History: 5 Best individual performances in a losing cause since 2010
The NBA has witnessed some sparkling individual performances in its 74 years of existence. The likes of Wilt Chamberlain, Elgin Baylor and David Robinson all put in memorable displays on the court, breaking numerous records in the process.
More recently, Kobe Bryant, Carmelo Anthony and James Harden have all set scoring records with some breathtaking displays in front of awestruck fans.
While most of those displays were rewarded with victories, there were a few performances that ended in disappointing defeats.
Here, we take a look at the 5 best individual NBA performances in a losing cause since 2010:
#5 James Harden (58 points vs Brooklyn Nets)
James Harden had a monster 2018/19 campaign, averaging 36.1 points per game. Harden set numerous records over the course of the season, but was unable to lead the Houston Rockets to the NBA championship.
Nevertheless, he put in quite a few memorable performances, including one against the Brooklyn Nets in January.
Harden entered the clash against the Nets on the back of a 57-point display against the Memphis Grizzlies, and he continued from where he had left off, pouring in 58 in a 145-142 overtime loss. In the process, Harden became the first player to score at least 55 points in back-to-back games since Wilt Chamberlain in the early '60s.
Harden shot 16-of-34 from the field and 21-of-23 from the free throw line. He also added 10 rebounds and six assists but was unable to lead the Rockets to victory.
#4 Devin Booker (59 points vs Utah Jazz)
Devin Booker has been the face of the Phoenix Suns ever since being drafted with the 13th overall pick of the 2015 NBA Draft.
Booker has developed into one of the finest shooters in the league and showcased his wide range of skills during the Suns' loss to the Utah Jazz earlier this year.
Booker broke a number of records during his 59-point performance, becoming the first player in NBA history to score 50 points in a game which his team lost by at least 30.
The then-22-year-old went 19-for-34 from the field and made five 3-pointers in a fine shooting display. He also made 16 of 17 free throws and finished with 59 points, while the rest of his team combined for just 33.