NBA's Greatest Players in History: James Harden

• 7-time All-NBA First Team selection
• Led the NBA in scoring three consecutive seasons (2018-2020)
• 2018 NBA Most Valuable Player
• Member of the NBA's 75th Anniversary Team

James Harden has revolutionised modern basketball with his elite scoring ability, masterful ball-handling, and innovative playing style.

Overview

James Harden's journey from NBA Sixth Man of the Year to league MVP exemplifies his remarkable evolution as a player. Known for his deadly step-back three-pointer and ability to draw fouls, Harden has become one of the most prolific scorers in NBA history. His unique combination of shooting, ball-handling, and playmaking has redefined the role of a lead guard in the modern NBA.

Career snapshot

Drafted third overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2009, Harden initially thrived as a sixth man, winning the NBA Sixth Man of the Year award in 2012. After being traded to the Houston Rockets in 2012, Harden blossomed into a superstar, leading the league in scoring three consecutive seasons from 2018 to 2020. His MVP season in 2017-18 saw him average 30.4 points, 8.8 assists, and 5.4 rebounds per game while leading the Rockets to the NBA's best regular-season record.

Playing style

Harden's playing style is characterised by his exceptional ball-handling skills, elite shooting ability, and knack for drawing fouls. His signature step-back three-pointer has become one of the most feared weapons in the NBA. Harden's ability to manipulate defences with his dribble and change of pace allows him to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. His craftiness in drawing contact and getting to the free-throw line has made him one of the most efficient scorers in league history.

Why James Harden is on our list

James Harden's impact on the game of basketball cannot be overstated. His innovative playing style and historic scoring prowess have earned him a place among the most dominant players in NBA history. Harden's ability to single-handedly carry an offense and consistently put up staggering numbers sets him apart from his peers. His influence extends beyond his individual accomplishments, as his playing style has inspired a new generation of players and forced defences to adapt to his unique skillset.

Five Fast Facts

1. Harden is the first player in NBA history to record multiple 50-point triple-doubles in a single season
2. He holds the record for most three-pointers made in a single season with 378 (2018-19)
3. Harden has led the league in assists once (2016-17) and free throws made seven times
4. He was a key member of the USA men's national team that won gold at the 2012 Olympics
5. Harden's signature beard has become iconic, spawning merchandise and fan imitations

Career Highlights Timeline

2009: Drafted 3rd overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder

2012: Wins NBA Sixth Man of the Year award

2012: Traded to the Houston Rockets

2013: Selected to his first NBA All-Star team

2015: Finishes second in MVP voting

2017: Signs the richest contract in NBA history at the time (4 years, $228 million)

2018: Wins NBA Most Valuable Player award

2019: Becomes the first player since Michael Jordan to average at least 36 points per game in a season

2021: Traded to the Brooklyn Nets, forming a superstar trio with Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving

2022: Traded to the Philadelphia 76ers, reuniting with former Rockets GM Daryl Morey

NBA's Greatest of All-Time List: Click the player's name to read their profile