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Top 20 Interesting Facts About James Harden

One name leaps out like a blazing comet in the electric world of basketball: James Harden. Behind his famed beard is a treasure mine of fascinating information that will enchant you. Harden’s unique maneuvers, which include jaw-dropping crossovers and hypnotic step-backs, have helped him become a household name in basketball.

Uncovering the fiery story of his ascent from promising talent to NBA superstar, his tenacious attitude and hard ethic has established a remarkable legacy on and off the court, leaving fans and adversaries alike in amazement.

Behind the courageous competitor is a man with interesting facets: the empathetic, the relentless. He possesses many facts that we have no idea about. Follow through as we uncover 20 interesting facts that define the enigma that is James Harden.

1. He Is 6’5″ Tall And Weighs 220 Pounds

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James Harden’s 6’5″ height and 220-pound weight offer him a significant edge on the basketball court. Because of his height, he can shoot above opponents and create space for his drives to the basket. His weight allows him to absorb contact and complete plays via contact.

Furthermore, his height and weight combination allows him to rebound well for a guard. These physical characteristics have contributed to Harden becoming one of the most prolific scorers in NBA history.

2. Harden Was A McDonald’s All-American In 2007

In 2007, James Harden was a McDonald’s All-American. He was chosen as one of 24 players for the McDonald’s All-American game, an annual basketball contest amongst the greatest high school players in the United States.

Harden excelled at Artesia High School in Lakewood, California. He is a two-time McDonald’s All-American and the 2007 Gatorade National Player of the Year. He was also a consensus five-star prospect and the top player in his class according to numerous recruiting organizations.

3. Harden Was A 2009 Pac-10 Player Of The Year

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James Harden was named Pac-10 Player of the Year in 2009. At the time, he was attending Arizona State University.

In 2009, Harden averaged 20.1 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. He guided the Sun Devils to a 25-9 record and an NCAA Tournament trip. Harden was also chosen to be the First Team All-Pac-10.

His nomination as Pac-10 Player of the Year was a significant achievement. Harden’s success in 2009 helped propel him to the top of the NBA draft.

4. James Was A Consensus All-American In 2009

In 2009, James Harden was a consensus All-American. He was named to the Associated Press All-America First Team, the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) All-America First Team, and the Sporting News All-America First Team, among 15 other players. In addition, he was selected Pac-10 Player of the Year.

Harden’s selection as a consensus All-American was a significant achievement. He was the first Sun Devil since 2002 to be awarded a consensus All-American.

5. Harden’s No. 13 Jersey Was Retired By The Arizona State Sun Devils

The Arizona State Sun Devils retired James Harden’s No. 13 jersey in 2015. Harden was a two-year starter at Arizona State, earning All-Pac-10 First Team honors in both 2008 and 2009. In his two seasons with the Sun Devils, he averaged 18.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game.

Harden’s jersey retirement was a significant distinction. He was one of Arizona State’s most successful players, and he helped put the program back on the map. 

6. Harden Was Drafted With The Third Overall Pick In The 2009 NBA Draft 

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James Harden was the third overall pick in the 2009 NBA Draft. The Oklahoma City Thunder picked him. In 2009, Harden was a unanimous All-American and Pac-10 Player of the Year.

In his sophomore season at Arizona State University, he averaged 20.1 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game.

Harden was regarded as one of the greatest players in the NBA Draft class of 2009. He was a dynamic scorer capable of shooting from the perimeter as well as creating his shot off the dribble. For a guard, he was also a strong passer and rebounder. Harden went on to have a great NBA career.

7. He Plays Basketball Despite Suffering From Asthma

Despite having asthma, James Harden plays basketball. He was diagnosed with asthma as a kid and has had to manage his illness his whole life. Harden, on the other hand, has not let his asthma prevent him from following his passion for playing basketball.

To assist control his asthma, Harden occasionally utilizes an inhaler before games and practices. His asthma does not affect his performance on the court, and he has shown no indications of slowing down.

Many individuals are inspired by Harden’s ability to play basketball at an exceptional level despite suffering from asthma. He demonstrates that you can achieve your goals even if you have a chronic condition.

8. He Won The 2018 NBA MVP

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James Harden was named NBA MVP in 2018. He got 86 first-place votes and 965 total points, putting him well ahead of second-placed LeBron James (69 first-place votes and 750 total points).

In 2018, Harden had a career year, averaging 30.4 points, 8.8 assists, and 5.4 rebounds per game. He topped the league in scoring and assists while also finishing second in steals. Harden also hit 36.7% from three-point range, the second-highest percentage in his career.

Harden’s MVP season was the product of years of commitment and hard work. He had been a star for the Houston Rockets since 2012, but he had never been regarded as the league’s greatest player. However, in 2018, Harden put together a season that was simply too good to ignore.

9. Harden Has Never Missed The Playoffs

Although Harden’s difficulties in the playoffs have been extensively discussed, they primarily revolve around specific games and moments rather than his overall performance.

Despite receiving criticism throughout his career, it is essential to acknowledge that he has consistently made the playoffs and maintains an average of 22.9 points in 158 games.

10. He Is A 3-Time Scoring Champion

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James Harden has won the scoring championship three times, in 2018, 2019, and 2020.  Harden won his scoring championships while playing with the Houston Rockets. He averaged 30.4 points per game in 2018. He averaged 36.1 points per game in 2019. He averaged 34.3 points per game in 2020.

Harden is a high-scoring guard noted for his step-back jumper. For a guard, he is also an excellent passer and rebounder. Harden is a complete player who can have an influence on the game in a variety of ways.

Check Out: NBA’s 15 Greatest Scorers: The Players Who Put Up the Numbers

11. He Is A 10-Time NBA All-Star

From 2013 through 2022, James Harden was named to the All-Star squad ten times with six times on the All-NBA First Team.

Over the last decade, Harden has been one of the most consistent players in the NBA. In each of his ten seasons, he averaged more than 25 points per game and led the league in scoring three times. Harden is also an excellent playmaker, averaging more than 7 assists per game in each of the last eight seasons.

Harden’s All-Star selections attest to both his brilliance and endurance. He is one of the top players in the NBA and has been for more than a decade.

12. James Has Led The League In Assists Twice

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James Harden has twice topped the NBA in assists. In 2017 and 2023, he lead the league in assists. Harden is a talented playmaker who can set up his teammates for scoring opportunities.

He’s also an outstanding passer who can read the play and locate the open player. Harden’s talent as a playmaker was on full display during his two seasons as the league’s assist leader.

Given that he is a shooting guard, Harden’s assist totals are even more amazing. The majority of the league’s top assist producers are point guards, who are often more concerned with ball distribution. Harden’s ability to lead the NBA in assists while also playing shooting guard demonstrates his talent and adaptability.

13. He Was Named In The NBA 75th Anniversary Team In 2021

In 2021, James Harden was chosen to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team. He was one of 75 players chosen for the squad, which was formed to commemorate the NBA’s 75th season.

Harden was chosen as a shooting guard for the team. He is a superb playmaker as well as one of the most prolific scorers in NBA history. Harden is a complete player who can have an influence on the game in a variety of ways.

His selection to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team reflects his talent and achievements. He is one of the greatest players in NBA history and has had a significant effect on the game.

14. James Is Represented By Troy Payne Of Equity Basketball

James Harden has picked Troy Payne, a former Adidas executive who works with Equity Basketball agents Mike Silverman and Brandon Grier, to be his representation.

This is Harden’s first formal agency collaboration since 2017, when his former representative, Rob Pelinka, stepped down to become general manager of the Los Angeles Lakers. Payne, Silverman, and Grier will now represent Harden.

15. He Is A 2-Time Olympic Gold Medalist

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Harden was a member of the USA national team that won a gold medal at the 2012 Olympics, and he also helped the squad win the FIBA Basketball World Cup in 2014. Harden chose not to compete in the 2016 Olympics despite being considered for the team.

16. Harden Has An Endorsement Deal With Adidas

James Harden is a global ambassador for Adidas and has his signature shoe line, the Harden Vol. 1 through 14. He signed a 13-year, $200 million contract with Adidas in 2015. Harden’s endorsement with Adidas has been a mutually beneficial relationship.

Adidas has benefited from Harden’s popularity and his ability to connect with fans. Harden has benefited from Adidas’ marketing power and its ability to help him reach a global audience.

The collaboration between Harden and Adidas is likely to last for many years. Harden is one of the NBA’s most popular and marketable players, and Adidas is one of the world’s strong companies. The two parties have the same goal of expanding their respective brands in the next years, and they are well-positioned to achieve it.

Read More: Top 20 Untold Facts About Kevin Durant

17. Harden Has Shares In Soccer Teams 

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Harden made a huge step on July 18, 2019, when he became a partial owner of two professional soccer clubs headquartered in Houston: the Houston Dynamo in MLS and the Houston Dash in the NWSL.

He rationalized his decision by stating that Houston is now his home and that he viewed this as a chance to invest in his community while also extending his commercial interests. Harden reaffirmed his commitment to Houston, saying, “This is my city, and I plan to stay here.”

18. He Can Only Shave His Beard For $10 Million

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James Harden’s beard is an important part of his brand and plays an important role in identifying his image. Among NBA players, he has effectively used his facial hair to brand himself. Harden’s beard is an iconic trait in the NBA since few players have beards of this length.

The expense of shaving off his beard has long been a source of speculation, and the answer is a hefty $10 million. Unless someone provides him with this cash, his beard is likely to remain a conspicuous and permanent feature of his face.

19. He Executive Produced For Lil Baby And Lil Durk’s Joint Album 

Harden was an executive producer on Lil Baby and Lil Durk’s collaborative album The Voice of the Heroes in 2021. Harden is a huge admirer of both Lil Baby and Lil Durk and was excited to be a part of the production. He assisted with the selection of tracks for the album and offered feedback on the overall sound of the project.

The album was a critical and financial success, and its hard-hitting beats and appealing melodies were acclaimed. Harden’s participation in the project demonstrated his rising popularity in the hip-hop industry. 

20. James Harden Is A Strip Club Fanatic

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James Harden is well-known among NBA fans for his penchant for clubbing. He has a special affinity for strip clubs and is frequently spotted spending his evenings in them. Harden has a long history of enjoying the nightlife in the United States, and strip clubs are among his favorite hangouts.

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