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USA Today via Reuters

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USA Today via Reuters

Fans might find ways to criticize a star like James Harden for his basketball struggles or his partying habits. However, there is also a side of “The Beard” that many don’t know about- he has a big heart. Back in February, a Michigan State University student, John Hao became a victim of a devastating school incident leaving him paralyzed. Hao is a fan of the ten-time All-Star, therefore, when Harden found out about it, he sent him gifts and gave him the motivation to keep going.

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However, the gifts were not the only things Hao received. ESPN journalist Malika Andrews recently revealed an update on both Hao and the promise Harden made him several weeks ago.

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James Harden will fulfill his promise

Malika Andrews revisited the time Harden showed his kindness to John Hao. Going back to February, Harden not only vowed to help him in all ways possible, but he also wanted to bring him out to a game and Hao will finally have his moment on Sunday when the Philadelphia 76ers take on the Boston Celtics in Game 4.

Andrews revealed – “Hao has been released from the hospital and he will be attending Sunday’s game in Philadelphia as Harden’s guest. He still has a long road ahead of him but Harden has vowed to be there every step of the way.”?

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Harden made an unrevealed contribution to Hao’s treatment. Not only that, but he also called his actions ‘bigger than basketball’. James Harden also gave him a pair of game-worn sneakers while telling Hao, “Keep pushing and keep fighting”. It is truly great to see the 2018 MVP living up to his promise and going out of his way to help Hao.

READ MORE -?Minutes Before Heartbreak for James Harden?s 76ers, NBA World Goes Crazy About ?Dangerous? and ?Scary? Joel Embiid Incident

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The Beard has been using his platform and position to make an impact on others’ lives. This proves that the 10x All-Star is more than just a conventional basketball player. Outside of the game, the Sixers guard is also a compassionate human who wants to use his platform for good.

NBA fans salute Harden for his kindness

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The NBA world commended James Harden for his kindness towards the Michigan State student. Not only were they impressed with his efforts, but even the fans are eagerly awaiting the moment Hao reaches Philadelphia for the game.

Several of the fans praised Harden for his efforts. Take a look at a few of the tweets.

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Then there were the Sixers fans who expect Harden to go all out in Game 4 as they are currently trailing behind the Celtics with a 2-1 tally.

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WATCH THIS STORY:??Stephen Curry, LeBron James, Joel Embiid, and other stars that lit up NBA All-Star?s weekend in 2022

What do you think of Harden’s efforts toward Hao’s treatment and betterment? Let us know in the comments below.

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Written by

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Anuj Talwalkar

4,520 Articles

Anuj Talwalkar is a senior NBA Newsbreak specialist at EssentiallySports, trusted for his real-time coverage and fast, accurate updates on league developments. With five NBA seasons and two Olympics coverages under his belt, Anuj stands out as the go-to reporter for the NBA Matchday Newsdesk. As part of the EssentiallySports Journalistic Excellence Program, he continuously refines his hard reporting with grounded storytelling shaped by fan culture and court-level insights. An economics graduate and lifelong OKC fan since the Supersonics era, Anuj combines analytical thinking and a genuine passion for basketball. He’s recognized for both his live news coverage and feature writing, with aspirations to someday interview Russell Westbrook. Anuj’s reporting is marked by its reliability, depth, and strong connection to the pulse of the NBA.

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Siyari Debbarma

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