NBA star James Harden has decided to make a very generous move both financially and emotionally to one of the victims in the horrific shooting on Michigan State’s campus earlier this month.
John Hao, a 20-year-old Michigan State student, was one of the five injured along with three others who were fatally wounded by the gunman. His injuries tragically left him paralyzed from the chest down.
ESPN’s Malika Andrews revealed his story in a Twitter post on Thursday night, along with a special gesture for Hao offered by Philadelphia 76ers star James Harden.
Andrews detailed that Hao is a huge fan of Harden.
Last week, 20-year-old John Hao’s life was changed forever. He was one of the students shot at Michigan State University and was left paralyzed from the waist down. Hao is a huge fan of James Harden, and when Harden heard Hao’s story, he stepped in: pic.twitter.com/Htm2RXRdQ2
— Malika Andrews (@malika_andrews) February 23, 2023
Harden was notified of Hao’s situation by his roommate, and the 76ers star generously gave him game-worn basketball shoes, a FaceTime call, and a significant donation to his GoFundMe Page to help pay for medical bills.
In the call with Hao, Harden offered his support by telling him to keep smiling and that everything will end up working out.
“Everything will work itself out,” Harden told Hao. “Be strong. You’re all right. I promise you are. I love when you’re smiling too. I love when you’re smiling, alright? I’m with you. I know it’s tough right now but you have to stay physically strong you know what I mean? You just gotta think positive things.”
Harden also revealed on the call that he is sending other gifts to hopefully help life Hao’s spirits. He also gave Hao his phone number and told him to “let him know” if he needs anything else.
Things will likely never be the same in Hao’s life after this horrific tragedy. However, this type of support from James Harden can hopefully go a long way in helping him mentally as he starts his road to recovery.
