Early Life
James Edward Harden Jr. was born on August 26, 1989, in Los Angeles, California. He grew up in a family of athletes and was introduced to basketball at a young age by his mother, who played the sport in college. Harden attended Artesia High School in Lakewood, California, where he became a top-ranked basketball player in the state.
College Career
After graduating from high school, Harden attended Arizona State University, where he played for the Sun Devils. He quickly became a standout player, averaging 19 points per game during his sophomore year. In 2009, he was named the Pac-10 Player of the Year and declared for the NBA draft.
NBA Career
Harden was drafted third overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2009. He played for the team for three seasons, serving as a key player off the bench and helping the Thunder reach the NBA Finals in 2012. In 2012, he was also named the NBA Sixth Man of the Year.
In 2012, Harden was traded to the Houston Rockets, where he quickly became the team’s star player. He has since earned numerous accolades, including six All-Star selections, three scoring titles, and the 2018 NBA MVP award.
Playing Style
Harden is known for his unique playing style, which involves a lot of isolation plays and step-back jump shots. He is also an excellent passer, averaging over seven assists per game throughout his career. His style of play has earned him the nickname “The Beard.”
Philanthropy
Off the court, Harden is known for his charitable work. He founded the James Harden Foundation in 2012, which aims to provide educational opportunities for underprivileged children. He also regularly donates to local charities in Houston, where he currently plays for the Rockets.
Conclusion
James Harden is one of the most talented and successful basketball players of his generation. His unique playing style and philanthropic work have earned him admiration both on and off the court. As he continues to play for the Houston Rockets, fans can look forward to watching his incredible talent for years to come.
