James Harden

Too far away to force a changing of the guard in the Wild West, yet close enough to loudly announce their arrival, James Harden and the Oklahoma City Thunder added to the list of things the reigning-champion Los Angeles Lakers would find trouble defending. Pushing 2010’s No. 1 team to its limits with a late, 24-point lead and a 2-2 series tie impending, Harden prepares the final touches by discovering an uncovered spot from the left wing, piquing the home crowd’s attention even before his elevation. Spot-on in his accuracy, Harden sends the light-shirted crowd — like a volcano waiting to erupt — into a frenzy with Game Four’s victory all but secured. A two-way dynamo during his postseason career’s opening saga, Harden’s tape on April 24, 2010 included timely defensive contributions, forced turnovers, four-point plays, and the type of offensive excellence that would eventually underscore his Hall of Fame-bound career. A combustible scorer within Oklahoma City’s second unit, Harden accumulated 15 points (on just six shot attempts), five rebounds, four assists, two steals, one block, and two 3-pointers in 24 minutes, setting a nascent tone for unforgettable title chases over the upcoming seasons.

Rookie Year