How Sixers Star James Harden Is Helping a Mass Shooting Victim Heal

• James Harden brightened the day of his fan who is recovering from life-threatening injuries
• John Hao was shot in the back at Michigan State University earlier this month in an incident that left three people dead and several injured
• He sent him sneakers, donated to his GoFundMe, and FaceTimed him as he recovers from hospital

Philadelphia 76ers superstar James Harden gave one of his biggest fans a lovely gesture as he continues to recover from life-threatening injuries from a mass shooting at Michigan State University earlier this month.

John Hao, 20, was shot in the back during the deadly shooting incident that left three people dead and scores injured.

Hao is p@ralyzed from the chest down and still has critical lung injuries. The Harden fan remains in intensive care and faces months and possibly years of recovery, per CBS Sports.

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According to the 2018 NBA MVP, members of his team visited Hao at Sparrow Hospital after getting the news of his situation.

Harden's gesture for Hao

To brighten the young fan's day, the former Houston Rockets star sent sneakers, including a game-worn pair, donated to Hao's GoFundMe, and FaceTimed him to offer some comforting words, per ESPN.

The future Hall of Famer spoke about his gesture after Sixers' thrilling 110-105 win over the Memphis Grizzlies.

"I heard that he was a fan of mine, so I wanted to get up on that ASAP and just see what I could do, anything I could do."

He had some lovely words for the fan.

"I love when you're smiling, all right? I'm with you. I know it's tough right now, but you have to stay physically strong, you know what I mean? You just got to think positive things and keep pushing and fighting. I got you. I got some guys for you, too. I got some things coming your way, hopefully give you some encouragement and make you smile a little bit, you know what I mean? Let me know if you need anything else."

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Harden had an incredible game against the Grizzlies. He scored 31 points, 7 rebounds, and 7 assists to help his team erase a 17-point deficit. He also passed Sixers great Allen Iverson for 31st on the NBA's all-time scoring list.

Harden on Brooklyn Nets exit

Sports Brief earlier reported on Harden opening up on a turbulent spell with the Brooklyn Nets.

Harden joined Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving on the Nets in January 2021 in a blockbuster trade forming a potent big three. Many NBA fans expected them to make a run for the NBA title for a few seasons.

He said he left for a reason.

"I didn't just ask to leave for no reason. I was in a really good place in Houston. Obviously, we didn't have a chance to win a championship, but I was comfortable. So for me to up and leave my family, all the things I created there, to come to Brooklyn for a year and a half to try to just get up and leave, it was for a reason."