A $50,000 fine for James Harden

A video circulating on social networks on Wednesday embarrassed Houston Rockets basketball player James Harden and he was quick to defend himself on his Instagram account.

According to the sequence, which is to be reviewed by the Rockets organization, Harden may have recently visited a stripper's bar, much like Washington's quarterback Dwayne Haskins did last Sunday.

Indeed, in the video broadcast on the Black Sports Online site, the famous athlete with the full beard appears without a mask during a Christmas party. He is seen, among other things, handling a suitcase in a visibly animated place. A message at the bottom of the screen explains that the object is intended for an acquaintance of Harden.

If the events described have taken place recently, the star of the club may have to miss the inaugural game of the season against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday.

Despite a possible violation of the league's COVID-19 policy, the basketball player responded to his critics.

"It's one thing after another. I showed up to show my support for my friend at her event [which wasn't in a strip club] because she's becoming superior and putting her people in a position to be successful. And that becomes a problem," he wrote. Every day is different. No matter how many times, people try to smear my name all the way. But the truth always wins out in the end."

Having asked to be traded, the Rockets player has been at the center of rumors for several weeks. In addition, NBA rules prohibit players from going to bars or similar establishments, or participating in gatherings of more than 15 people.