when you were born, I nicknamed you Lucky.

But luck has nothing to do with it.

You created your own path.

The hours in our driveway

paved the way to state championships.

MAN: James Harden, how does it feel to be MVP?

HARDEN: Oh, it feels great, you know?

WOMAN: In the desert, you grew your game

and you shattered expectations.

It wasn't long until you suited up for draft day.

ANNOUNCER: James Harden, of Arizona State.

Looking back now, you've always been creative,

doing it your way, on your terms.

You were dreaming big then, but when you left me that note,

"Keep this paper. Imma be a star,"

you were already my brightest star.

MAN: MVP, baby!

ANNOUNCER: Step back 3... bottom!

James Harden!

WOMAN: And now, you're showing everyone else.

ANNOUNCER: Oh!

[ crowd cheering ]

PA ANNOUNCER: James Harden!