Possibly the most well-known beard in NBA history, James Harden’s facial hair is a defining feature of this awesome Brooklyn Nets player. The idea of James Harden with no beard would seem almost unimaginable to many of his fans. And yet, James didn’t start his NBA career with a beard. And he has even offered to shave it off if the price is right.
Here, we take an in-depth look at the legend behind the beard, when James started growing it, the times he appeared without a beard, and what the future may hold for the iconic beard and mustache.
James Harden’s Beard – the Origin Story
It’s always surprising that James didn’t decide to grow a beard for any particular reason. There are still plenty of pictures of a clean-shaven Harden notching up Arizona State Sun Devils’ buckets when he played college basketball.
Fans noticed that Harden’s beard first began to appear in 2009. It was during his rookie season with the Oklahoma City Thunder, who had taken him third overall in the draft.
Harden has said in several interviews that he didn’t deliberately set out to grow a beard. He got a little lazy with his shaving; the rest is history. Initially, the beard didn’t include a mustache – the mustache was added later.
Today, James Harden without a beard is inconceivable to many of his fans and the NBA in general.
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When did The Beard Become a Legend?
Harden’s beard started to become a talking point sometime around 2011. By this time, its thick, luxurious growth and meticulous grooming had resulted in the creation of an impressive facial accessory that gave Harden a commanding and confident presence.
He has said that his beard did boost his confidence on the court. If this is the case, it’s certainly paid off. Harden’s prowess at the sport is legendary. The highest-scoring left-handed player in NBA history is also recognized as possibly the strongest shooting guard the sport has ever seen.
Since its appearance a decade ago, Harden’s beard has become an icon as famous as the man himself. The beard plays a key role in the player’s outfits on and off the pitch. Harden’s wardrobe is well known for its distinctive style and is designed to complement his beard. The result is an enviable look that’s completely his own.
Harden’s beard is so well-recognized and revered that it’s become the player’s defining feature. Many people refer to him simply as “the beard” – an affectionate title that pays tribute to his stunning facial hair. His fans even show up at his NBA games wearing fake beards as a tribute to their hero.
How Does James Harden Look Without a Beard?
Although it’s been a good few years since James went cleanshaven, there are plenty of pictures around that show him as a fresh-faced teen in college.
Even without the beard, it’s fair to say that Harden still cuts an imposing figure. Weighing in at 220lb and 6′ 5″ tall, Harden has a significant physical presence on the court and off. The beard adds a little something extra to his already impressive persona.
Has Harden Ever Shaved?
There is considerable speculation regarding whether Harden will ever part with this beard. As far as we’re aware, the closest Harden came to getting rid of the iconic beard was an April Fool joke perpetrated by Space City Scoop. A post claimed that Harden had shaved his beard in 2015 after losing a bet to his lifelong friend DeMar DeRozan.
At the time, fans who fell for the ruse became alarmed. They were convinced that, in true Samson style, Harden’s alleged lack of beard would interfere with his performance during the season. Thankfully, the joke was soon exposed. Harden’s beard was as large and lovely as it’s always been.
Since then, the beard has remained a focal point of the player’s appearance.
With regard to who is charged with trimming and maintaining the beard, Harden says he doesn’t do the job himself. Only his trusted barber can do the skilled trimming necessary to keep the beard looking its best.
Could We See James Harden With No Beard Permanently?
Given the level of interest that the beard has generated over the years, it’s little surprise that he’s been asked several times if he would ever shave it off.
The beard plays in his overall image and persona. So it would seem unlikely that he’d simply shave it off on a whim. He has, however, indicated a set of circumstances in which he’d be prepared to see the beard go.
In a recent interview, he said that he’d be prepared to have his beard shaved off, but only if $10 million is donated to charity. Nobody has come forward to take Harden up on his offer, so the beard remains!
What Does the Future Hold for The Beard?
Harden has played for three teams in the last three seasons. He joined the Brooklyn Nets for the 2021-22 season, followed by his one-year stint at the Philadelphia 76ers. In November 2023, Harden joined the Los Angeles Clippers, joining his former Oklahoma City Thunder teammates Russell Westbrook and Paul George.
Whether Harden decides to shave his beard off in years to come remains to be seen. What is clear is that his formidable talent and hard work ensure that “the beard” will continue to dominate the court in the foreseeable future.
Also Read: VIDEO: James Harden’s Reaction To His Girlfriend Catching The Bouquet At A Wedding Is Absolutely Priceless
