Boston Celtics: James Harden of the Philadelphia 76ers invited John Hao, the victim of the shooting at Michigan State, to Sunday night’s victory over the Boston Celtics.
Harden waved to Hao, took off his shoes, signed them, and gave them to his new friend as soon as he made the overtime 3-pointer to tie the postseason series for the 76ers at 2-2.
“He brought me good vibes, good energy,” Harden said following the game.
A needed break from impending rehabilitation for the Chinese international student who attended Game 4 as Harden’s guest, Hao was all smiles as he watched from the floor.
John Hao… 6th Man! #Uno pic.twitter.com/dKqLjq7PSF
— James Harden (@JHarden13) May 7, 2023
When Harden was free to travel, he had invited the 20-year-old Hao and his parents to a 76ers game.
Hao recently departed a Chicago recovery centre where he had been since a shooting on the East Lansing campus in February that left three students dead and five others injured.
Police searched for Anthony McRae, 43, who ultimately committed suicide when confronted by officers not far from his house in Lansing. Students across the huge campus were instructed to shelter in place for four hours – “run, hide, fight” if necessary.
Hao continued to remember his classmates who had died by wearing Harden’s No. 1 Sixers jersey and going to the game with his parents. Additionally decked out in a Harden shirt, Hao’s father posed for photos as the 76ers warmed up behind him.
After the tragedy, Harden found that Hao was a fan of his and called the youngster to encourage him before donating trainers and money.
In a video recording of the call from February, Harden added, “I know it’s tough right now, just got to be mentally strong. Just keep striving and consider the good aspects. Never give up. I have you.”
Harden also honoured his commitment to allow Hao access to a game. The family sat in a club box at the Wells Fargo Centre to watch the game.
Hao told The Associated Press, “When I got hurt, he read the news about that and just came to give us all the support we need. I really appreciate that.”
Because of Harden, Hao claimed his spirits were high and that he had become a 76ers supporter, adding that “he taught me to keep strong.”
Hao claimed he still requires extra treatment and doesn’t know what’s coming up for him. Even though he might return to China with his parents, Hao said he remained dedicated to graduating from Michigan State.
He stated, “I wish to return to my normal life and therapy as quickly as possible.”
For basketball tournament, basketball live update, latest basketball news, live NBA, basketball championship live, basketball daily updates, basketball championship live updates, live NBA score and other NBA news follow Livematchupdates.com.
