76ers star James Harden made a promise to Michigan State student and fan John Hao during an emotional conversation three months ago. Hao sustained severe injuries that paralyzed him from the chest down after an on-campus mass shooting on Feb. 13 that killed three people and left four others wounded.
After sending the 20-year-old a gift package, Harden told Hao on a FaceTime call that he wanted to bring him to a game once he was able to attend. On Sunday, Harden had the opportunity to make good on his word by welcoming the 20-year-old survivor as a guest for Game 4 of the Sixers’ second-round series against the Celtics in Philadelphia.
As Harden went through warm-ups, the 10-time All-Star took a moment to walk over to Hao and embrace him in a heartwarming scene. The pair have reportedly kept in touch since February after the veteran guard gave the young man his number following their video call.
This is awesome 💙
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) May 7, 2023
Harden kept his promise and paid for Michigan State shooting survivor John Hao to attend Game 4 👏 pic.twitter.com/rSvSrLRiZs
In the aftermath of the Feb. 13 mass shooting, Harden and Hao’s connection provided a warm story for the MSU community and the country. During their initial chat, Harden offered multiple messages of encouragement to Hao and made sure to let him know he was supporting him.
“Everything will work itself out. Just be strong,” Harden told Hao over the phone. “You’re all right. You’ll be all right. I promise you are.”
Needless to say, Sunday’s scene likely provided an uplifting boost for both Hao and Harden, who hopes to help his team pull out a big win in front of Philly’s h crowd and one of his biggest supporters.
James Harden is COOKIN' and his guest John Hao is loving it 🙌 pic.twitter.com/u8Vr1h6B4b
— ESPN (@espn) May 7, 2023
a few months ago, @michiganstateu student John Hao was paralyzed following a shooting on campus. his favorite NBA player, @JHarden13 spoke to him while he was hospitalized and promised him tickets. today he made his way to Philly. ❤️💙 pic.twitter.com/w4IF1slmzq
— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) May 7, 2023
