20 Facts About James Harden

James Harden's Early Life

James Harden's journey to NBA stardom began long before he donned a professional jersey. His early years laid the foundation for his future success.

1. Born on August 26, 1989, in Los Angeles, California, Harden grew up in a sports-loving family.
2. Harden attended Artesia High School in Lakewood, California, where he led the basketball team to two state championships.
3. During his senior year, Harden was named a McDonald's All-American, a prestigious honor for high school basketball players.

College Career at Arizona State

Harden's talent shone brightly during his time at Arizona State University, where he played college basketball for two seasons.

4. Harden played for the Arizona State Sun Devils from 2007 to 2009.
5. In his sophomore year, he was named the Pac-10 Player of the Year.
6. Harden declared for the NBA Draft after his sophomore season, forgoing his final two years of college eligibility.

NBA Draft and Early Professional Career

Harden's entry into the NBA marked the beginning of an illustrious career filled with numerous accolades and achievements.

7. The Oklahoma City Thunder selected Harden as the third overall pick in the 2009 NBA Draft.
8. Harden won the NBA Sixth Man of the Year Award in 2012 while playing for the Thunder.
9. In October 2012, Harden was traded to the Houston Rockets, a move that would define his career.

Houston Rockets Era

Harden's time with the Houston Rockets saw him transform into one of the league's most dominant players.

10. Harden made his debut for the Rockets on October 31, 2012, scoring 37 points against the Detroit Pistons.
11. He became the first player in NBA history to score at least 30 points in each of his first two games with a new team.
12. Harden led the league in scoring for three consecutive seasons from 2017 to 2020.
13. In 2018, Harden won the NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) Award.

Signature Style and Skills

Harden's unique playing style and skills have made him a standout player in the NBA.

14. Harden is known for his signature step-back three-pointer, a move that has become nearly impossible to defend.
15. He has a reputation for drawing fouls and getting to the free-throw line, often leading the league in free-throw attempts.
16. Harden's beard has become his trademark, earning him the nickname "The Beard."

Off the Court

Beyond his on-court achievements, Harden has made significant contributions off the court.

17. Harden is involved in various charitable activities, including his 3 The Harden Way foundation, which aims to provide better opportunities for young people.
18. He has a passion for fashion and has been featured in several fashion magazines.
19. Harden has also ventured into the business world, investing in various companies and startups.

Recent Career Moves

Harden's career continues to evolve, with recent moves keeping him in the spotlight.

20. In January 2021, Harden was traded to the Brooklyn Nets, joining forces with Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving to form a new superteam.

Harden's Legacy in the NBA

James Harden's journey in the NBA has been nothing short of remarkable. From his early days with the Oklahoma City Thunder to becoming a superstar with the Houston Rockets, Harden has consistently proven his worth. His unique playing style, characterized by his step-back three-pointers and incredible ball-handling skills, has made him a household name. Harden's numerous accolades, including MVP awards and scoring titles, highlight his impact on the game.

Beyond the stats, Harden's influence extends off the court. His philanthropic efforts and community involvement showcase his commitment to making a difference. As he continues to evolve and adapt, fans eagerly anticipate what the future holds for this basketball icon. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, there's no denying that James Harden's legacy in the NBA is firmly cemented.