As the LA Clippers prepare to open their brand new home, the Intuit Dome, all eyes are on their star player James Harden. The former NBA MVP and 10-time All-Star is primed to lead the Clippers in his 16th NBA season, and he’s ready to embrace the challenge head-on.
A Homecoming for Harden
For Harden, playing for the Clippers is a homecoming of sorts. The Los Angeles native grew up watching the Lakers play at the Forum and the Staples Center, dreaming of one day leaving his own mark on the city’s basketball scene.
It means everything, man. Just growing up, being from LA and you had the Staples Center, obviously you had the Forum… But just being here in the hood of L.A. … Steve Ballmer did it. He did it. He’s a genius.
James Harden on playing for the Clippers
Great Expectations
With the opening of the Intuit Dome, expectations are high for the Clippers. Despite being seen by some as “not a championship contender,” Harden believes the team has something to prove.
I feel like we have to show out. I’m not going to individualize myself. I think us as an organization gotta show out and show that since we quote “lost” or we’re “not a championship contender” from outsiders, that we want to show out and bring some energy into this building and win a lot of games.
James Harden on the Clippers’ expectations
The Clippers will start the season without their other superstar, Kawhi Leonard, who is out indefinitely due to right knee inflammation. But Harden is confident in the team’s ability to compete, even without Leonard in the lineup.
Evolving Leadership
As the unquestioned leader of the Clippers, Harden’s role has evolved over the years. He’s no longer just a scorer and playmaker, but a mentor and “OG” for the team’s younger players.
I think the leadership role has always been there. I think it’s just being more like, I don’t want to say that word like a mentor, like an OG. Somewhere where you could ask me something off the court and on the court, and I’m pretty sure I’m going to have a response or an answer for you just because I’ve experienced a lot.
James Harden on his leadership role
Harden’s leadership was on full display this summer when he organized a team minicamp in Phoenix, paying for every player’s expenses and leading two-a-day workouts. It’s that kind of dedication and commitment that has his teammates and the Clippers organization excited about the upcoming season.
A Signature Style
Throughout his career, Harden has been known for his signature moves on the court, from his lethal step-back jumper to his Euro step. But for Harden, it’s not just about having flashy moves – it’s about constantly evolving and improving his game.
First of all, you have to fall in love with the game. So you have to find ways to always improve. So watching somebody like [Manu] Ginobili and [Dwyane Wade]. Obviously D-Wade was way more athletic, so his Euro would be a Eurostep and dunk. And then you got the step-back. I used to watch somebody like Paul Pierce who caught the ball at the elbow and just boom, hit this guy with a shoulder and get a shot off, create that separation.
James Harden on developing his signature moves
Harden’s dedication to his craft has paid off – he’s on the verge of passing Reggie Miller for second all-time in 3-pointers made. But even as he climbs the record books, Harden remains humble, always quick to praise his peers like Stephen Curry.
I’m going to consider myself No. 1. Steph doesn’t count. Y’all see what that dude be doing? And we came in the same year. I can’t speak for Steph, but for me it’s like, when I got drafted and was trying to find my way in the league and all that, I didn’t expect it to be this level. And I’m sure he didn’t expect to be this level. I’m sure the scouts and all the guys that were looking at it like, OK, he can shoot, but come on, man. He’s the greatest shooter we’ve ever seen.
James Harden on Stephen Curry
A New Chapter
As the Clippers embark on a new chapter in their franchise’s history, they’ll look to Harden to lead the way. With his scoring prowess, playmaking ability, and evolving leadership skills, Harden is ready to meet the moment and silence the doubters.
I feel like I get an opportunity at the highest level to show my teammates that I can be a leader in that aspect. The numbers and things like that are going to happen, just because my usage rate is going to be high, I’ll be playing a lot. You got a high usage rate, the numbers are going to show, but it’s about actual details and being impactful obviously for the game and then for your teammates as well.
James Harden on leading the Clippers
It’s a new era for the LA Clippers, and James Harden is ready to lead the charge. With a new arena, a talented roster, and a chip on their shoulder, the Clippers have all the ingredients for a special season. And with Harden at the helm, anything is possible.
