We've compiled a ton of information on this guy to help give you a glimpse of what Ryan Brooks, preferably, will be up against. Here's our bio on the Pac-10 Player of the Year:
James Harden (Soph., Arizona State)
Ranked the 2nd best sophomore in the country by DraftExpress.com, James Harden presents a number of problems for the Owls' defense. Standing at 6'5", the phenom from Los Angeles, CA has the ability to execute in several ways. He is a pure scorer, and can go off for 20-30 points any time he is in the groove. Here's a look at some of his statistics:
- 20.8 points
- 4.2 assists
- 5.5 rebounds
These stats go to show what a talented individual this kid is, day in and day out. A key ability for Harden is that he can create his own opportunities off the dribble. It is noted that his first step with the ball is powerful and explosive. The highly rated NBA prospect has a variety of moves that he has available that can catch any defender off-guard.
Don't get the idea though that this guy is purely a scoring machine. At times, his assist total can be very deceiving. James Harden is as good as a team player can be- he is one willing to give up a take to the basket for an extra pass, or even pull out to his any open man. This ability also causes problems for ASU's opponents, as teams become over-focused with attempting to cover Harden.
If there are any disadvantages that Harden possesses, they are not too hard to pick up. As many scouts note, #13 is more willing to take the ball to the strong side, instead of switching it up. Not to take away from his right handed attempts, but there is a minor notice of obviousness when predicting which way he wants to go. That being said, James Harden has elevated his game to the point that it is difficult to stop him at times. In addition to this, Harden's other noticeable problem is a common one, and that is being able to hit the jumper off his own dribble. Like Dionte Christmas, James Harden's stronger area is coming off a pick, or setting up for a shot.
In the Pac-10 Conference Tournament, Harden averaged an unsurprising 20.3 points per game, but struggled in the Championship against USC. He was held to only 10 points in the team's loss. The Trojans had a lot of success against Harden, only allowing 4 and 10 points scored in their matchups. I'm sure Coach Dunphy and the Owls will be studying that game tape for a while.
James Harden is not your average guard, and has the ability to cause a lot of problems for Temple. Ryan Brooks, the Owls' defensive specialist, will have his work cut out for him as he prepares for the future NBA prospect.
The Owl's Nest will continue to keep you updated in the days leading up to Temple's dance with Arizona State.
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