Why is James Harden Not Playing? What Happened to James Harden?
by Alaguvelan M
Updated Oct 27, 2023
Why is James Harden Not Playing?
The NBA is currently investigating whether the Philadelphia 76ers and their guard, James Harden, violated the league's new player participation policy during their opening night game against the Milwaukee Bucks.
This inquiry comes in light of concerns about Harden's availability for the game, which was broadcast on national television. According to league spokesperson Michael Bass, the investigation aims to determine if an approved reason exists for Harden's limited participation.
The situation with James Harden serves as an early test for the NBA's recent legislation designed to ensure star players' availability for high-profile televised games. In this case, the 76ers opted to keep Harden in Philadelphia after his return to the team following a 10-day absence due to what the team described as a "personal matter."
The team believed that Harden could better prepare himself for the game by staying at the practice facility and working with the Sixers' development coaches and medical staff.
Harden expressed his desire to travel with the team on their opening road trip to Milwaukee and Toronto, but the 76ers were concerned that he wasn't physically ready to play after the extended time away from the team. Harden's only preseason scrimmage was on October 7 in Boston, which raised doubts about his readiness for the season opener.
The NBA's player participation policy allows teams and players some flexibility for reasons such as injury, personal matters, and "rare and unusual circumstances." Violations of this policy can result in fines, with the first offense potentially leading to a $100,000 fine, and increasing penalties for subsequent violations.
Harden's decision to be away from the team is believed to be partly connected to his dissatisfaction with the 76ers not honoring his trade request to the LA Clippers. Despite exercising his player option for the season, he immediately sought a trade, but trade talks with the Clippers have recently stalled as the team evaluates its roster and situation.
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Who is James Harden?
James Harden, an American professional basketball player, currently plays for the Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA. He's renowned for his incredible scoring abilities and is considered one of the all-time great shooting guards.
In 2021, he received the prestigious honor of being named among the top 75 players in NBA history as part of the NBA's 75th Anniversary Team. Harden began his basketball journey with the Arizona State Sun Devils, where he earned recognition as a consensus All-American and the Pac-10 Player of the Year in 2009.
He entered the NBA in 2009, being picked as the third overall selection by the Oklahoma City Thunder. From the start, Harden showcased himself as an exceptional scorer, known for his free-throw precision, the signature step-back jumper, and the Euro step.
In 2012, Harden's career took a new turn when he was traded to the Houston Rockets. During his eight-season stint with the Rockets, he became one of the franchise's most celebrated and successful players, consistently guiding them to the playoffs, including two appearances in the Western Conference Finals.
In 2020, he joined the Brooklyn Nets, forming a formidable trio with Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving. However, they couldn't secure an NBA championship, leading to Harden's trade to the Philadelphia 76ers in February 2022.
With ten NBA All-Star selections, seven All-NBA Team recognitions, three NBA scoring titles, and the record for unassisted three-point makes, James Harden continues to be a thrilling and dynamic presence in the world of basketball, captivating fans with his remarkable skills.
Birth Name
James Edward Harden Jr.
Birth Date
August 26, 1989
Birth Place
Los Angeles, California, U.S.
Listed Height
6 ft 5 in (1.96 m)
Listed Weight
220 lb (100 kg)
Position
Point Guard/Shooting guard
League
NBA
Playing Career
2009–present
James Harden Age
James Harden is 34 years old. He was born on August 26, 1989. Harden is still one of the best players in the NBA, despite his age. He is averaging 22.8 points, 7.8 assists, and 6.1 rebounds per game in the 2022-23 season. He is still a threat to score from anywhere on the court, and he is a good passer and rebounder.
James Harden Nationality
James Harden's nationality is American. He was born in Los Angeles, California, on August 26, 1989. He played college basketball for Arizona State University, and he was drafted by the Oklahoma City Thunder with the third overall pick in the 2009 NBA draft.
Harden has played for several different NBA teams, including the Thunder, Houston Rockets, Brooklyn Nets, and Philadelphia 76ers. He is currently playing for the 76ers.
James Harden Career
James Harden is an American professional basketball player known for his exceptional scoring ability, crafty ball-handling skills, and signature beard. Harden began his basketball journey at Artesia High School in California, where he showcased his talent and led his team to back-to-back state championships.
After high school, Harden joined Arizona State University, where he continued to shine as one of the top players in college basketball. He was named the Pac-10 Player of the Year during his sophomore season, solidifying his reputation as a prolific scorer and versatile player.
In the 2009 NBA Draft, Harden was selected as the third overall pick by the Oklahoma City Thunder. As a member of the Thunder, he quickly established himself as a key contributor and formed a dynamic trio with Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook. Harden's ability to score from all areas of the court, combined with his playmaking skills, helped the Thunder reach the NBA Finals in 2012.
Following his successful tenure with the Thunder, Harden was traded to the Houston Rockets in 2012. It was in Houston where he truly blossomed into a superstar. Harden's offensive prowess reached new heights as he became the focal point of the Rockets' offense. He consistently led the league in scoring and became known for his signature step-back three-pointers, often leaving defenders helpless in his wake.
Over the years, Harden's accolades have continued to pile up. He has been named an NBA All-Star numerous times, won the NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) award in 2018, and has been a scoring champion on multiple occasions. His unique style of play and ability to draw fouls have made him one of the most difficult players to guard in the league.
In 2021, James Harden was traded to the Brooklyn Nets, joining forces with fellow superstars Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving. This move has created immense excitement and anticipation among basketball fans, as the trio aims to compete for an NBA title.
What Happened to James Harden?
NBA star James Harden's return to the Philadelphia 76ers after a 10-day personal absence has sparked curiosity. Even though he returned to practice, he surprised many by missing the season opener against the Milwaukee Bucks.
The Sixers had advised him to remain in Philadelphia to better prepare for the season, causing him to stay behind during the team's early road trips. This situation raised questions about why Harden didn't play and what led to his absence from the initial games of the season.
It turns out that Harden had initially intended to join the team for the season opener in Milwaukee, despite the team's suggestion that he stay in Philadelphia. However, this plan led to a misunderstanding as he saw the team's advice as a mere suggestion, and his attempt to board the team's flight was halted by security.
This confusion has left fans wondering about the reasons behind his absence and how it might affect his future with the 76ers.
Why is James Harden Not Playing - FAQs
James Harden is not playing due to personal reasons.
The exact personal reason for Harden's absence has not been publicly disclosed.
There is no information indicating that Harden's absence is due to injury. It's considered a personal matter.
The specific return date for James Harden has not been confirmed. It depends on when he resolves his personal matter.
The 76ers have played games without Harden and the team's performance during his absence varies.