James Harden is entering his 16th NBA season, and the 35-year-old superstar proved he's still full of surprises. During Fanatics Fest in New York City, the Los Angeles Clippers guard lit up the crowd by channeling none other than WWE icon Hulk Hogan . The 2018 MVP’s unexpected entrance, complete with theme music, yellow feather boa, and signature red bandana, delivered a larger-than-life moment that perfectly matched the electric energy of the event. His iconic entrance gave fans a glimpse of Harden’s showman side beyond the basketball court.
James Harden brings Hulk Hogan energy to Fanatics Fest
James Harden embraced the Hardenmania character. Striding into Fanatics Fest to Hulk Hogan’s classic entrance anthem, “Real American,” Harden owned the moment with the confidence of a wrestling headliner. His performance was met with cheers and laughter from the crowd.
Later during the event, Harden joined a live talk session where he reflected on his journey and aspirations. As he was speaking, a fan interrupted from the audience with a message, “Win a championship.” Without missing a beat, Harden looked over and responded with a calm, determined, “I will, I’m trying,” drawing both applause and laughter from those in attendance.
Coming off a season that revitalized his legacy, Harden has reason to be optimistic. He earned both All-Star and All-NBA Third Team honors while averaging 22.8 points and 8.7 assists over 79 games. Even though the Clippers were bounced in the first round of the playoffs, the team’s 50-win campaign was considered a success.
Still, the championship remains the missing piece for the 11-time All-Star, and that’s something he hasn’t given up on. Whether or not he achieves it, his appearance at Fanatics Fest reminded fans that James Harden is keeping his championship dream alive.
Fans reacted to James Harden’s epic Hulk Hogan tribute at Fanatics Fest
Fans online were quick to react to the epic moment created by James Harden.
“Thank you James. See, it takes special people to move on from hard feelings. He knows Hogan is the GOAT. If he can’t be there personally he can be there in spirit,” one fan wrote on X.
“To those wondering if he knows, he definitely knows. He just ignores it or possibly is just a fan of the Hulk Hogan character, not the person itself. Hulkamania is, and always will be running wild. HULKAMANIA, BROTHER!!” another wrote slamming the criticism of the moment.
“Hulk Hogan wouldn't like this soo Good work Harden,” another fan shared.
“It’s hilarious he got more cheers than the REAL Hulk Hogan would’ve,” one fan claimed.
While the moment has its criticism, Harden’s offseason break outing has certainly delighted a log of fans. Of course, many are upset for the Clippers legend not getting anywhere near winning a championship this year, but he is optimistic to come back stronger.
Also Read: Victor Wembanyama keeps a secret notebook for wisdom from NBA legends like Kevin Durant and LeBron James
James Harden brings Hulk Hogan energy to Fanatics Fest
James Harden embraced the Hardenmania character. Striding into Fanatics Fest to Hulk Hogan’s classic entrance anthem, “Real American,” Harden owned the moment with the confidence of a wrestling headliner. His performance was met with cheers and laughter from the crowd.
Absolute legend 💪😂 @WWE pic.twitter.com/SwO3kgjGVY
— Fanatics (@Fanatics) June 21, 2025
Later during the event, Harden joined a live talk session where he reflected on his journey and aspirations. As he was speaking, a fan interrupted from the audience with a message, “Win a championship.” Without missing a beat, Harden looked over and responded with a calm, determined, “I will, I’m trying,” drawing both applause and laughter from those in attendance.
Coming off a season that revitalized his legacy, Harden has reason to be optimistic. He earned both All-Star and All-NBA Third Team honors while averaging 22.8 points and 8.7 assists over 79 games. Even though the Clippers were bounced in the first round of the playoffs, the team’s 50-win campaign was considered a success.
Still, the championship remains the missing piece for the 11-time All-Star, and that’s something he hasn’t given up on. Whether or not he achieves it, his appearance at Fanatics Fest reminded fans that James Harden is keeping his championship dream alive.
Fans reacted to James Harden’s epic Hulk Hogan tribute at Fanatics Fest
Fans online were quick to react to the epic moment created by James Harden.
“Thank you James. See, it takes special people to move on from hard feelings. He knows Hogan is the GOAT. If he can’t be there personally he can be there in spirit,” one fan wrote on X.
Thank you James. See, it takes special people to move on from hard feelings. He knows Hogan is the GOAT. If he can’t be there personally he can be there in spirit.
— JFS (@jfsstudios) June 22, 2025
“To those wondering if he knows, he definitely knows. He just ignores it or possibly is just a fan of the Hulk Hogan character, not the person itself. Hulkamania is, and always will be running wild. HULKAMANIA, BROTHER!!” another wrote slamming the criticism of the moment.
To those wondering if he knows, he definitely knows. He just ignores it or possibly is just a fan of the Hulk Hogan character, not the person itself.
— Don (@gamebols) June 22, 2025
Hulkamania is, and always will be running wild. HULKAMANIA, BROTHER!!
“Hulk Hogan wouldn't like this soo Good work Harden,” another fan shared.
Hulk Hogan wouldn't like this soo Good work Harden
— Xavier Franco (@Franco_Xavierr) June 21, 2025
“It’s hilarious he got more cheers than the REAL Hulk Hogan would’ve,” one fan claimed.
It’s hilarious he got more cheers than the REAL Hulk Hogan would’ve
— Kakarot (@ShadBoogie) June 21, 2025
While the moment has its criticism, Harden’s offseason break outing has certainly delighted a log of fans. Of course, many are upset for the Clippers legend not getting anywhere near winning a championship this year, but he is optimistic to come back stronger.
Also Read: Victor Wembanyama keeps a secret notebook for wisdom from NBA legends like Kevin Durant and LeBron James
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