4 Years After the China Controversy, 10x All-Star James Harden Visits Special Place, Amid Clippers Trade Rumors

2018 MVP James Harden is the name on everyone’s lips after the start of the 2023 NBA Free Agency. It is looking increasingly likely that he will leave the Philadelphia 76ers and Joel Embiid to join the Los Angeles Clippers any time soon. However, talks have been tough and teams are yet to find a middle ground. As rumors about his future flood the internet, the 10-time NBA All-Star recently visited a troublesome place from his past.

Harden posted a story about interacting with Chinese fans on social media platforms. Interestingly, this comes just four years after his general manager’s comments on China, which landed him in a huge controversy.

James Harden visits a troublesome place from his past

It was 2019 when Harden and the Houston Rockets were in China for their pre-season. Harden was playing some of his best basketball during that time and his popularity peaked.

That’s when the then Rockets GM and Harden’s close associate, Daryl Morey, put out a controversial tweet. “Fight for Freedom. Stand with Hong Kong“, read Morey’s now-deleted tweet.

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Days after a huge backlash for Harden, the Rockets, and Morey, he decided to speak up. Following a practice session with the former teammate and probable future teammate, Russell Westbrook, Harden offers clarification.

“We apologize. You know, we love China. We love playing there. For both of us individually, we go there once or twice a year. They show us the most important love”, said Harden.

Morey’s comments came at a tumultuous time for the Chinese government and Hong Kong. Years after this incident, it looks like China has buried the past.

Harden shared a video of his latest interaction with Chinese fans on his Instagram story. A number of fans can be seen flocking towards the Philadelphia 76ers in Shanghai, China.

Harden moving closer and closer to the Clippers

A starting lineup of Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, Russell Westbrook, and James Harden might well be a possibility in the future. After exercising his player option, Harden has asserted that he wants to join the Clippers.

Following weeks of speculation and rumors, Shams Charania of The Athletic recently revealed the two teams will re-engage in talks before the start of the regular season. These rounds of talks might seal the former MVP’s future once and for all.

What are your thoughts on James Harden’s future updates? Let us know in the comments below.

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