James Harden and Russell Westbrook function as co-leaders of the Rockets. But its Harden whose numbers duel with reigning MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo for the crown this season. Harden bolsters his case with his dedication to the game, recently expressing his displeasure with the concept of load management.
It makes sense to assume NBA players, especially the best ones, must keep a close eye on what they eat. After all, theyre competing on the court 82 times a year and that doesnt include playoffs. However, Houstons MVP recently made headlines for a slightly less rigorous diet.
In general, Hardens diet is fairly standard for an elite athlete. However, he explained his meals to USA Todayin 2016, and fans noticed the detail he went into on his cheat food. Ice cream sundae with warm chocolate chip cookies on top is a much more high-effort choice than youd expect from the typical NBA player.
In another description of his diet via Sportswallah, Harden elaborated, saying he didnt particularly like chips or candy but loved cookies, ice cream, brownies, and hot fudge sundaes.
Its clear that Harden pays enough attention to his calories and macronutrients to maintain his body, especially now that hes a GQ Cover Star. But The Beard is human, and hes not afraid to admit he likes food that tastes good.
Elsewhere in the NBA, players bet their futures on the right diet. Dwight Howard partially attributed his Lakers resurgence this year to intermittent fasting, which helped him drop 40 pounds. Vince Carter continually puts in the work to make the 2020s his fourth decade in the NBA the first player to do so by sticking to a low-carb, protein-heavy diet.
In the 2017 offseason, Harden turned heads with a new look, adding 15 pounds of muscle and cutting fat from his massive frame. In the two years since then, Harden has managed to stay in great shape while still enjoying his sweets. Its clear hes willing to put in the work to enjoy the food he loves.
Staying in shape is paramount, but Harden wisely observed that cutting out all food for the perfect body is a fools errand. Steve Nash and Steph Curry have both won the MVP award twice, and no ones accused either of them of being massively ripped.
At age 30, Harden is still crushing it. As of December 27, 2019, Harden leads the NBA in points (by nearly 250), free throws, and most importantly for the Rockets, Win Shares and Value over Replacement Player. Although NBA stars tend to decline through their early thirties, Harden is doing everything he can to box out Father Time.
The Houston Rockets are likely playoff-bound. A little luck might get them past the LA teams and into the NBA Finals. Whether Harden finally gets his hands on the championship trophy, hes an inspiration to everyone with dreams of playing ball while still enjoying a treat now and again.
Anyone doubting Hardens commitment to the dessert lifestyle might want to pick up a pair of the new Harden 4s from Adidas available in Pink Lemonade, Candy Paint, and Cookies n Cream.
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James Harden's Diet Is Probably More Down to Earth Than You Think - Sportscasting
