James Harden is proving that age is just a number. At nearly 36 years old, the bearded shooting guard just secured a two-year, $81.5 million contract with the Los Angeles Clippers, locking in over $40 million per season.
This isn’t just a payday — it’s a statement that Harden remains a vital force in the league, defying critics and cementing his legacy among the NBA’s all-time greats.
🏀 From Oklahoma City Thunder to Clippers: Harden’s Epic NBA Journey
Harden’s NBA career reads like a blockbuster script:
- Rising star in Oklahoma City Thunder’s 2012 NBA Finals run with Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook
- Starred for the Houston Rockets for over eight seasons, capturing the 2018 MVP award and winning three straight scoring titles
- Formed a high-profile trio with Durant and Kyrie Irving in Brooklyn, though injuries stalled championship hopes
- Brief, dramatic stint in Philadelphia, famously clashing with 76ers President Daryl Morey
- Now a cornerstone for the Clippers, helping lead the team to back-to-back playoff appearances
💰 The New Deal: What’s In Harden’s Contract?
Harden’s fresh Clippers contract guarantees him $40.75 million per year, a nice bump from his previous $36.3 million player option.
Key details include:
- Two-year deal, $81.5 million total
- Player opt-out after the first year, with a partial guarantee on the second year
- Flexibility for Harden depending on how the season unfolds — meaning 2026 could see him negotiate yet another lucrative deal
📊 Harden’s Recent Performance: Still Among the Best
Critics have long pointed to Harden’s inconsistent playoff performances. But there’s no denying his regular-season impact:
- Averaged 22.8 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 8.7 assists last season
- The Clippers arguably wouldn’t have made the playoffs or held a 5-seed spot without his steady contributions
With Harden on the floor, the Clippers’ offense hums — and his leadership continues to shape the roster’s success.
🏆 Legacy in the Making: Climbing NBA’s All-Time Lists
Off the court, Harden’s individual milestones loom large. Currently:
- 11th all-time in scoring
- 13th all-time in assists
Most players ahead of him are retired legends within striking distance, and Harden is poised to climb further up those ranks.
Pair that with a long-sought NBA championship, and the Clippers’ city might soon be filled with Beard fans celebrating his legendary career.
🔥 Fans and Analysts React
Social media is buzzing:
💬 “Harden’s money move proves he’s still elite!”
💬 “At 36, still dropping buckets and cash.”
💬 “The Beard’s chase for a ring keeps us watching.”
What’s Next for James Harden?
- Can Harden push the Clippers deeper into the playoffs this year?
- Will he add another scoring title or an MVP-caliber season?
- Will a championship finally crown his incredible career?
👀 Your Turn!
What do YOU think about Harden’s new deal and career path? Is the Beard still an NBA legend in the making?
💬 Drop your thoughts below and stay tuned to Pop Radar for all the hottest NBA news and celebrity updates!
