WATCH: James Harden’s HEARTFELT GESTURE for school shooting victim after career-defining performance
Philadelphia 76ers level Eastern Conference Semi-Final series 2-2 against Boston Celtics.
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James Harden talking to Michigan State shooting victim; John Hao after Game 4. (Image via Twitter)
The 2023 NBA Conference Semi-Finals are shaping up to be one of the most nail-biting encounters. The Boston Celtics and the Philadelphia 76ers locking horns is proving to be an exciting matchup. Both mighty teams in the East are now neck and neck in the series after four games. Playing at home, the 76ers were down 2-1 ahead of Game 4 and needed an absolute win. However, with everyone except Joel Embiid failing to fire earlier, it looked unlikely. Much to Philadelphia’s pleasure, the former MVP. James Harden came out with another impressive performance in Game 4.
After the game, Harden managed to win the hearts of NBA fans all over with his heartfelt gesture. The veteran guard had a special guest in the arena today. John Hao, who is a Michigan State University shooting victim, developed a bond with Harden.
While Hao was in the stands cheering, he received a special gift after the guard put up a stellar clutch shot in overtime. Hao was given a pair of shoes that Harden played in for Game 4. He also autographed the shoes and left a note for the brave young man who has been paralyzed since the unfortunate event. Harden also asked Hao to be back for Game 6 in Philadelphia.
James Harden had an excellent Game 1 in the series. However, in Games 2 and 3, he failed to make an impact as fans grew critical. As everyone was concerned and frustrated with Harden’s poor performances, the guard pulled out another formidable game. He scored 42 points in Game 4 alongside Joel Embiid’s 34.
For the Celtics, the duo of Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum combined for 47 points. However, thanks to Harden’s clutch three-pointer, this wasn’t enough, as the home side won with a score of 115-116 at the end of overtime.
Related: Joel Embiid CALLS OUT James Harden and 76ers teammates after loss to Celtics in Game 3
How is the Celtics-76ers series shaping up?
After James Harden’s heroics in Game 4, the series is now all tied up at 2-2. The teams will now head back to Boston for Game 5. While the Celtics almost won this game, they would go back with a little to reflect on. However, they wouldn’t be too critical of themselves as they put up a great fighting spirit.
It was rather unfortunate when Marcus Smart couldn’t get the shot out on time after a great pass from Jayson Tatum. He had made the three-pointer but couldn’t beat the buzzer to win the game for Boston.
James Harden would feel rather good about himself after two poor games. Moreover, the 76ers are back on track and will look to continue their winning momentum forward. Philly has already won a game in Boston and would expect the same from themselves again. Joel Embiid has been impressive with his consistent performance for his side. However, the 76ers will need well-functioning teamwork on display if they want to beat the Boston Celtics.
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