The offseason saw James Harden making waves not just for his on-court prowess but for a series of viral moments during his highly publicized China tour, underscoring his lasting global appeal even as he enters the 17th NBA season. Harden, now a Los Angeles Clippers star, drew huge crowds and sparked viral social media buzz with a mix of heartfelt fan interaction, surprising reveals, and some offseason antics that caught the basketball world’s attention.
Harden’s tour, part of his annual Adidas UNO Tour sneaker campaign, drew thousands of adoring fans to events in Guangzhou City, where the 2025 edition of his signature Adidas sneakers was front and center. One sprawling mall was packed to capacity with fans sporting jerseys from almost every team Harden has played for Thunder, Rockets, Nets, and now Clippers showcasing his sustained popularity in China. Harden expressed heartfelt gratitude to these fans, stating, “You guys never cease to amaze me, every time feels like the first time … I just hope you know the love is reciprocated,” revealing the genuine connection between him and his international audience.
A viral highlight was the dramatic unveiling of a custom-designed outdoor basketball court in Guangzhou featuring a larger-than-life image of Harden surrounded by tour branding with the slogan “Under No One,” a nod to both his self-styled nickname and jersey number 1. Despite rain dampening the reveal, Harden’s emotion was palpable as he pumped his fists and thanked the crowd. The court, designed by Yin for the 2025 UNO Tour, reinforced Harden’s status as not only an NBA star but a global basketball icon whose footprint extends well beyond the United States.
However, Harden’s China visit wasn’t without its offbeat viral moments. Clips surfaced on social media showing Harden’s noticeably different physical shape compared to his typical game-day form, sparking fan debates and humorous commentary about offseason weight fluctuations and conditioning. Some speculated Harden was adopting a more relaxed offseason approach, while others noted his skillful new moves showcased during clinic sessions and fan events. Despite jabs on social media, Harden’s charm and popularity in China clearly endure, as fans continued to flock around him wildly.
The China tour also revived memories of Harden’s 2023 viral moment when he openly criticized Philadelphia 76ers GM Daryl Morey during a similar trip, a remark that preempted a significant trade to the Clippers months later. That episode highlighted Harden’s willingness to speak candidly overseas and reinforced his complex relationship with team management versus fan adoration internationally.
From a performance standpoint, Harden recently sealed a lucrative two-year, $81.5 million contract extension with the Clippers after earning All-NBA Third Team honors in 2024-25, boasting averages of 22.8 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 8.7 assists. This offseason tour serves as both a celebration of his career achievements and a promotional push for his brand, Adidas, merging sport and global culture in one package.
In summary, James Harden’s China offseason tour was a vibrant mix of heartfelt fan moments, high-profile surprises like his custom court reveal, and viral clips that sparked lively discussion about his offseason shape and antics. The tour reinforces Harden’s status as an international basketball figure who commands tremendous respect and love both on and off the court while hinting that his best years might still lie ahead.
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