LA Clippers star James Harden grew up watching Kobe Bryant

LA Clippers star James Harden reached 25,000 career points in a win over the Golden State Warriors on Thursday night, becoming the first left-handed player to reach that milestone. When asked after the game what that means to him, and who he emulated growing up, Harden said it was Kobe Bryant – regardless of handedness.

But for me as a kid growing up, I never thought I’d be where I am today, but it’s a testament to how hard I work still to this day.

People can talk about all the stuff they don’t even know, but when it comes to basketball, you don’t get this far without putting the work in.

It won’t stop until I’m not playing basketball anymore. It’s a testament, I’ve got a long way to go, but every single day I put the work in no matter if it’s a good day, if I had 28-30 like tonight, or if I had 10 points tonight. Tomorrow I’ll be in that gym and putting extra shots up. For me it won’t change.”

For Harden, he is thankful to be where he is today, but the work does not stop with any milestone he hits – no matter how significant.

James Harden Revisits the School Where Clippers Star Fell in Love With Basketball

The tale of James Harden‘s relentless desire to be in LA is widely known. Particularly, due to his recent trade saga around the Los Angeles Clippers. Interestingly, even before an opportunity hinted itself, James Harden had been actively seeking a place in the glamorous city for years. His inclination is primarily rooted in the fact that LA is his hometown. Born in the city, he spent his formative schooling years, including high school, within bounds. Notably, he forged several enduring friendships, like with Russell Westbrook, while navigating the hoops circuit of LA.

Now, as Harden establishes his presence within the burgeoning Clippers’ roster, he took a moment before the upcoming match against the Knicks to revisit one of his former schools, highlighting the deep connection he maintains with his roots.

James Harden revisits his middle school

James Harden recently revisited the very place that marked the beginning of his basketball journey–Audubon Middle School in Los Angeles. A fan on X enthusiastically shared a photo, capturing him confidently taking the mic while sporting a sleek black polo shirt.

James harden was up at audubon today. Being an audubon alumni as well it’s always special. Forever an eagle. 🦅 pic.twitter.com/B5jg17GOX2

— Jamal Cristopher (@JamCristopher) December 15, 2023

Even after achieving stardom in the NBA, Harden has consistently prioritized reconnecting with his alma mater, making it a point to engage with the institution in various capacities. As a seventh-grader, Harden first started nurturing dreams of a professional basketball career at Audubon.