NBA legend Kobe Bryant’s past comments on James Harden resurface after Clippers’ loss

Kobe Bryant is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in NBA history. Known for his unmatched mentality and deep understanding of the game, Bryant often shared candid thoughts on the league, even after retirement. Now, one of his past takes on James Harden has gone viral again following the Los Angeles Clippers’ playoff elimination against the Denver Nuggets.

After the loss, Harden left the arena on Saturday night without addressing the media. The silence sparked debate among fans online, and brought back a 2018 interview in which Bryant said that Harden’s style might not lead to a championship.

Bryant, who was praised for his basketball insight in retirement, had commented on Harden during his peak years with the Houston Rockets. At the time, Harden had just been named league MVP and was dominating offensively.

While acknowledging Harden’s individual brilliance, Bryant made a pointed observation about his title hopes. “I’m not a fan of him in terms of winning championships,” Bryant said. “Everyone’s style is different, but to win titles, you have to elevate your team and keep them afloat during tough stretches.”

Kobe Bryant, Los Angeles Lakers.

Bryant’s old comments on Harden resurface after Clippers’ playoff exit

Six years later, Bryant’s comments on Clippers star have resurfaced across social media. The renewed interest comes after Harden’s standout performances for the Clippers in their playoff series against the Nuggets. Back when Harden was with the Houston Rockets, the team had a strong shot at a title, yet Bryant questioned whether Harden’s style of play would ever lead to a championship.

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“He can’t win a title, not with this style of play. It just won’t work,” Bryant said at the time. Following the Clippers’ elimination by Denver, fans have been revisiting those words, debating whether Bryant’s assessment still holds true today.

“Harden is also not a PG. I’ve said this here before. No team will ever win a title with him as a point guard,” one NBA fan wrote in response to the old interview, which was recorded before Bryant’s tragic passing in 2020.

Another disappointing end for Harden

The Clippers entered the playoffs as underdogs against the 2023 champion Nuggets, and once again, James Harden ends the season without a title. Now in his 16th NBA season, the veteran guard remains without a championship ring.

After another playoff exit, Harden finishes the year with no trophies in the cabinet, not even an individual award. Still, his pursuit of an NBA title is far from over. Whether it’s with the Clippers or another team, he’s expected to continue chasing that elusive championship next season.

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