The James Harden mask mystery has finally been solved with the Rockets star explaining why he put on the ‘Blue Lives matter’ face mask.
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James Harden’s ‘Blue Lives Matter mask’ has been the talk of the NBA Bubble in the last 24 hours. The topic that has seen Harden receive a lot of criticism on social media.
But now Harden has himself come out and explained why he wore the mask and what was the intention behind it.
The Rockets star has come out and said that the mask wasn’t meant to be a political statement.
Harden says Blue Lives Matter mask was ‘not a political statement’
Harden was seen wearing a mask that had thin blue lines on it and a punisher skull as well at the Bubble. The mask is interpreted as a show of support for police and the Blue Lives Matter campaign. That seemed to be a complete counter the ongoing Black Lives Matter movement after the death of George Floyd.
Speculation was rife over social media about if Harden was trying to make an anti-BLM statement. However, a few fans also felt that the Rockets star was maybe ignorant about what mask he had put on.
And a few ardent Harden supporters seem to be correct, as the former OKC man has confirmed that he wasn’t trying to make any political statement through it.
He hilariously explained that he put on the mask that covered his entire beard.
“It was just something that covered my whole beard. I thought it looked cool. That was it.” Harden said.
He said that he was unaware of the meaning of the mask and in no way was showing any sort of support.
Harden’s friend Rapper Young Thug also showed support for the former MVP. He said that Harden was unaware of the meaning. Harden quickly came out with a statement before this controversy escalated.
NBA and the Rockets would be relieved that one of their star players is not in favor of such a campaign.
The NBA themselves have shown tremendous support in the Black Lives Matter movement.
What’s next for Harden?
The All-star will now be looking to put all of this behind him and concentrate on the Bubble restart. James will be needed to be at the top of the game if the Rockets need to make it deep into the playoff.
He will also be without the presence of Russell Westbrook possibly for the initial matches at the restart cause of him being infected by COVID-19.
Harden is the highest-scoring player in the league and a viable contender for the MVP award.
The NBA season restart on the 30th of July.
