James Harden: NBA Bio & FAQs

Player averages

Points per game: 16.6
Rebounds per game: 5.1
Assists per game: 8.5
Player impact estimate: 13.1

James Harden Bio

James Harden is a Cleveland Cavaliers guard as of September 11, 2026. Cleveland announced on September 8, 2026 that Harden had returned on a three-year contract with a player option in its third season. Born August 26, 1989, in Los Angeles, Harden stands 6-foot-5 and attended Arizona State before Oklahoma City selected him third overall in the 2009 NBA Draft.

Harden began his NBA career with the Thunder, earned Sixth Man of the Year honors in 2012, and became the centerpiece of the Rockets after a 2012 trade. His career later included stops with Brooklyn, Philadelphia and the LA Clippers before his 2026 move to Cleveland. He is a 2018 NBA MVP, a three-time scoring champion and a member of the NBA 75th Anniversary Team. A left-handed guard, Harden is known for creating offense off the dribble, manipulating defenses as a passer and generating shots with his handle, change of pace and step-back jumper.

Jersey number: 1
Position: SG
Birth date: Aug 26, 1989 (age 37)
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 220
College: Arizona State
Draft year: 2009
Draft team: OKL
Draft round: 1
Overall pick: 3
Birthplace: Los Angeles, CA
Country: USA
Attended: Arizona State
Experience: 14 Years

James Harden Questions & Answers

What team does James Harden play for?

As of September 11, 2026, Harden is a guard for the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Cavaliers announced his new three-year deal on September 8, 2026.

What position does James Harden play?

Harden is listed as a guard. He has filled both lead-ball-handler and shooting-guard responsibilities during his NBA career.

How tall is James Harden?

James Harden is listed at 6-foot-5 and 220 pounds.

When and where was James Harden born?

Harden was born on August 26, 1989, in Los Angeles, California.

Where did James Harden play college basketball?

Harden played two seasons at Arizona State. In 2009, he earned Pac-10 Player of the Year recognition and was named an AP First-Team All-American.

When was James Harden drafted?

The Oklahoma City Thunder chose Harden with the third overall pick in the first round of the 2009 NBA Draft.

What is James Harden’s playing style?

Harden is an on-ball creator whose game blends high-level shot creation with playmaking. He is particularly known for using his dribble, pace and step-back jumper to create separation, while also serving as a primary facilitator for teammates.