Home/NBA

USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

James Harden has been the constant subject of online mockery for the past few seasons. ‘The Beard’ did not appear to be at his physical best after the previous off-seasons, and his game appeared to suffer as a result. His overweight pictures and management of his physical condition became a hot topic of discussion among fans.

Harden’s first step was once the cornerstone of his game; however, it no longer appeared to be what it once was. Last season, he was hesitant to blow by his man and attack the lanes owing to his physical limitations. Prime Harden was a guy who operated on acceleration and deceleration. That was his specialty. All of those weapons, though, looked to be shot.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

However, James Harden appears to be on a mission now. He looks to be commencing his redemption journey, as seen by his ripped physique in the most recent off-season body transformation pictures.

The last NBA season saw Harden go through a turbulent time. He joined forces with Joel Embiid after being traded from the Brooklyn Nets to the Philadelphia 76ers. Harden’s poor postseason play, though, drew him a great deal of criticism from Philly fans. However, he looks to be as geared as ever to set the league on flames and resurrect the Harden fans remember from his Rockets days.

Last season, Harden and the 76ers underperformed and appeared to be a mismatch. However, with him looking like he’s worked his way into his 2019 condition, the 76ers become an instant threat to win it all this year.

The pairing with Joel Embiid, as well as the group the organization has assembled around those two, is extremely dynamic. Given that Harden’s hamstring isn’t an impediment, the 76ers might be a nightmare for the league.

Fans react to James Harden’s incredible physical transformation

James Harden looks to be prepared to go to any length to win his first NBA championship. He made the first of many sacrifices by taking a $15 million pay cut.

He claimed that he did so following a conversation with Daryl Morey, in which he urged him to bolster the roster with new additions and give him whatever was left over.

READ MORE: Rare Photo Shows 6?9? Brittney Griner?s Height Next to 6?6? Kobe Bryant

Harden is what Sixers were missing for many years. Truth be told, he is someone they have been missing since the Allen Iverson era: a perimeter shot creator and bucket getter.

Now as Harden looks to be in the best shape of life, the 76ers fans will be anticipating big things going forward.

WATCH THIS STORY: Michael Jordans 5 Rumored Affairs After Divorce with Juanita Vanoy

Harden’s commitment to winning an NBA championship is evident in his time spent in the gym throughout the offseason. Fans, however, still devised a way to mock the Beard.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad