Harden Returns Home, Eyes Championship with Clippers

SAN FRANCISCO – James Harden, the 11-time NBA All-Star, returned to his hometown of Los Angeles to play for the Clippers, bringing with him old memories and new aspirations. During a recent visit to the Chase Center, Harden took a moment to engage with young fans from south Los Angeles after a game, recalling his own journey from Compton to NBA stardom.

“Y’all hear me. Make sure y’all grades are good, listen to y’all parents and you’ll be in the NBA one day,” Harden told the aspiring basketball players after scoring 39 points in a victory against the Golden State Warriors on April 13. The Clippers are set to host their first playoff game at the new Intuit Dome as they face the Denver Nuggets in Game 3 of the first round.

Despite a tough opponent in the Nuggets, led by NBA MVP candidate Nikola Jokic, Harden expressed confidence in the Clippers’ talent, which includes a healthy Kawhi Leonard. “I think we got the team. We can play isolation basketball with two great ISO players,” said Harden, who is averaging 25 points, 9.0 assists, and 4.5 rebounds during the playoffs. “For me, it’s about just keeping my composure and doing what I’m supposed to be doing.”

Harden’s journey has been shaped by his upbringing in Los Angeles, where he played basketball to escape the challenges of his environment. His mother, Monja Willis, supported his passion by installing a basketball hoop at home. Harden reminisced about his youth, recalling a letter he wrote to his mother expressing his ambition to become a star.

Since joining the Clippers through a trade with the Philadelphia 76ers in November 2023, Harden has also focused on giving back to his community through his Impact13 Foundation. Launched in 2021, the foundation aims to support underserved communities with programs that foster positive change. Recently, the foundation partnered with various organizations to provide aid to those affected by fires in Altadena and Pasadena.

“With my presence now being here, showing face, it means way more,” said Harden about his charitable efforts in Los Angeles. “I want to make sure the kids feel the same love that I never really got when I was a kid.”

At 35, Harden has the additional luxury of being closer to family and friends. His mother is now cancer-free, allowing him to enjoy more quality time with her. “As you get older, you start realizing what’s important and what things you got to hold on to and cherish,” Harden said. “Being at home with family and friends while doing what I love is the ultimate blessing.”

Harden believes that achieving a championship with the Clippers would be a crowning achievement in his illustrious career. As the playoffs progress, he remains focused on both his performance and his impact off the court. “Literally, my life is perfect. God gave me the perfect life. He’s blessed me,” he added, feeling grateful for the opportunity to uplift others while pursuing a title.