James Harden Leads Clippers to New Heights Amid All-Star Selection

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — James Harden, the veteran guard for the LA Clippers, has earned his first All-Star selection since his streak ended in 2023, highlighting his significant role on the team this season. Following the Clippers’ trip to Arizona for a pre-season team-building camp, Harden’s leadership has been instrumental for a squad grappling with injuries and roster changes.

After a standout performance in a recent game against the Milwaukee Bucks, where he scored 40 points, Harden reflected on the team’s growth. “We’ve put the work in. We put ourselves in a really good position,” he said, emphasizing the importance of teamwork. Harden joins a legacy of Clippers All-Stars as the oldest at age 35, marking his 11th selection overall.

Clippers coach Tyronn Lue praised Harden’s long-term contributions to the team. “It’s good to see him get back there. People recognize how much he means to a team and what he does,” Lue remarked. Despite averaging a career-low 39.5% shooting from the field this season, Harden’s ability to distribute the basketball remains evident, as he boasts an average of 8.6 assists per game.

The Clippers enter the All-Star break with a record of 29-23, sitting in sixth place in a competitive Western Conference. Harden has formed a potent trio with teammates Norman Powell and Ivica Zubac, each having scored over 20 points in a game together, showcasing their offensive chemistry. Last season, the same trio only accomplished this feat seven times.

Part of Harden’s success can be attributed to a unique team-building experience he arranged prior to the season. Days spent in Arizona included five-on-five games at Arizona State University, where Harden had a stellar collegiate career, along with social outings that built camaraderie among newer players and veterans alike.

<p“We’re for the most part, a fairly new team,” Harden noted during training camp, showcasing his commitment to fostering a united front. “Team building and chemistry are very important.” This sentiment resonated among teammates, including Derrick Jones Jr., who described Harden as “selfless,” stating, “He’s all about the team.”

Powell echoed similar sentiments, crediting Harden’s leadership for bringing the squad closer, stating, “It’s a good way to lead by example.” As the Clippers navigate the challenges of the season, their bond off the court is proving just as crucial as their performance on it.

Harden’s commitment to mentoring younger players like Kevin Porter Jr. is also noteworthy. Porter remarked, “James has been someone I look up to when it comes to basketball,” highlighting the impact of Harden’s experience. Similarly, Bones Hyland, a younger guard, stated, “Just being with him has been a blessing for me.”

As Harden continues to adapt his game and inspire those around him, the Clippers remain focused on their goals for the remainder of the season. His election to the All-Star game stands as a testament not just to his personal achievements but to the strength of the team dynamics he has fostered.