James Harden had an incredible night against the Boston Celtics helping his team to tie the series. The Beard has kicked his game up a notch and there was one main reason why he dominated last night. In attendance at Game 4 was John Hao, a mass shooting survivor who is a fan of the former MVP. Harden has a very special place for Hao in his heart and made sure he got to communicate his love for the young survivor.
After having an incredible 42-point scoring night against the Celtics, the Philadelphia 76ers guard removed his shoes, signed them, and gave it to John who was seated in a wheelchair. A few moments later, James Harden caught up with John Hao and had a very wholesome conversation with him.
“Every day is an opportunity to get better. Mentally, physically, all that… so just keep the right mindset. You know I’m always praying for you and I always got you. If you need me,” Harden said.
you heard the man. see you game 6, John. 🤝🥹 pic.twitter.com/FCxgdWswJs
— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) May 8, 2023
James Harden also told the survivor, “You the good luck charm,” and claimed that he felt great in the game after recognizing Hao in the crowds. The former All-Star also informed the Sixers staff to make sure John Hao and his family get to attend Game 6 at the Well Fargo Arena. According to NBA.com, John said that Harden was there to give him and the others support as soon as news broke out of the shooting.
Who is John Hao and what happened to him?
John Hao is a survivor of the horrific Michigan State University shootings that took place in February 2023. Anthony Dwayne McRae was a middle-aged man who opened fire in two buildings on the campus. For nearly four hours, students were in fear for their lives after MSU’s board sent a text message to all their students to, “run, hide, fight.” McRae killed himself in the mix while being confronted by the federal authorities.
There were five students killed during the incident and multiple students were injured. Unfortunately, John Hao was one of them. The international student is paralyzed from below the chest area and is receiving treatment for his injuries. He plans to finish his education and go back to his homeland to live with his parents.
