James Harden, born on August 26, 1989, in Los Angeles, California, is a professional basketball player who entered the NBA as the third overall pick in the 2009 NBA draft by the Oklahoma City Thunder. He is nicknamed "The Beard" and is known for his exceptional offensive skills and playmaking abilities. In this article, we will explore Harden's age when he entered the NBA and provide a comprehensive analysis of his career.
1. Harden's Draft and Early Career (2009-2012)
In the 2009 NBA draft, James Harden was selected by the Oklahoma City Thunder as the third overall pick. He played for the Thunder from 2009 to 2012, showcasing his talent and becoming an essential part of the team's success. Harden's contributions were instrumental in helping the Thunder reach the NBA Finals in 2012.
2. Move to the Houston Rockets (2012)
On October 28, 2012, James Harden was traded from the Thunder to the Houston Rockets. This trade proved to be a turning point in his career as he was given a more significant role within the team. Harden blossomed into a superstar during his time with the Rockets.
3. Contract Extension and MVP Season (2013-2018)
On November 1, 2012, the Houston Rockets signed James Harden to a five-year, $78.6 million contract extension. This new contract came into effect during the 2013-2014 season. Harden's performance during this period was exceptional, and he established himself as one of the top players in the league. He won the NBA MVP award in the 2017-2018 season.
4. Offensive Skills and Achievements
James Harden is widely regarded as one of the most versatile guards in NBA history. His offensive repertoire is unmatched, and he has consistently demonstrated his scoring and playmaking abilities. Some of his notable offensive skills include:
5. Later Career and Current Team (2019-Present)
As of now, James Harden is 34 years old. After leaving the Houston Rockets, he joined the Brooklyn Nets. His arrival in Brooklyn created a formidable "Big Three" alongside Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, attracting significant attention from fans and analysts alike.
In conclusion, James Harden entered the NBA in 2009 as the third overall pick by the Oklahoma City Thunder. He later moved to the Houston Rockets, where he achieved tremendous success and established himself as one of the league's premier players. Harden's offensive skills and achievements have solidified his place among the NBA greats.