PHILADELPHIA — James Harden sank the extra time 3-pointer that despatched the 76ers to a playoff victory and immediately waved over John Hao, a paralyzed Michigan State taking pictures survivor who developed a long-distance FaceTime bond with Philadelphia’s star guard.
Harden had simply scored 42 factors, eliminated his sneakers, signed them and handed them to his new good friend.
“He introduced me good vibes, good power,” Harden mentioned.
Hao was all smiles as he appeared on from the court docket, a wanted respite from looming rehabilitation for the worldwide pupil from China who attended Sport 4 as Harden’s visitor.
Earlier than the sport, Harden leaned into Hao and obtained small pats on the again earlier than resuming his pregame drills.
“You look good,” Harden informed Hao.
The 20-year-old Hao and his dad and mom had been invited by Harden to attend a 76ers recreation as soon as he was out there to journey.
Hao just lately left a Chicago rehabilitation facility the place he’d been since a February taking pictures on the East Lansing campus that killed three college students and injured 5 others.
Hao wore Harden’s No. 1 Sixers jersey and attended the sport together with his dad and mom.
Hao’s father additionally wore a Harden jersey and posed for footage because the 76ers warmed up behind him.
Harden realized after the taking pictures that Hao was a fan of his and donated sneakers, cash after which known as the scholar to supply encouragement.
“I do know it’s powerful proper now, simply gotta be mentally robust,” Harden mentioned in February in video of the decision. “Simply take into consideration the optimistic issues and maintain pushing. Hold preventing. I obtained you.”
Harden additionally saved his promise that Hao may attend a recreation. The household watched the sport from a membership field on the Wells Fargo Middle.
“After I obtained injured, he learn the information about that, he simply got here to present us all of the help we want,” Hao informed The Related Press. “I’m so appreciative of that.”
Hao mentioned his spirits have been robust and he was now a 76ers fan due to Harden.
“He taught me to maintain robust,” Hao mentioned.
The shootings at Michigan State occurred in February throughout night courses at Berkey Corridor and close by on the MSU Union. College students throughout the huge campus have been ordered to shelter in place for 4 hours — “run, cover, battle” if obligatory — whereas police hunted for Anthony McRae, 43, who ultimately killed himself when confronted by police not removed from his dwelling in Lansing.
Hao mentioned he doesn’t know what’s subsequent for him and nonetheless wants extra remedy. Hao mentioned he was dedicated to graduating from Michigan State, although he might transfer again together with his dad and mom to China.
“I hope to get again to my regular life and rehab as quickly as potential,” he mentioned.
