James Harden is on pace to a career best season. His heroic performances have led the Houston Rockets back in the playoffs run; they currently sit at 4th in the Western conference. Despite the Rocket’s slow start James Harden has galvanized their ball club back into a good flow, winning 12 of their last 14 games. Over the last 11 games, Harden has scored 30 or more points and is averaging 40 points during this streak. Harden currently leads the NBA in scoring (33.6), 3-pointers made (162), and free-throws made (318). I don’t know what is more impression: recording his fifth straight 40-point game? Scoring 30 points or more in the last 11 games? Or leading a short-handed Houston team to a 4th seed in the Western conference. On Thursday the Rockets defeated the Golden State Warriors after trailing by 20 points, James Harden was absolutely unstoppable recording 44 points, 10 rebound, and 15 assists. Including the game winning shot with 1-second left. James Harden’s late heroics prove why he’s a strong candidate for the MVP award. When the media asked Coach D’Antoni about the progress on his ball club and the elevation of his lead guard he clearly expressed the adjustments that were made and the stellar play of Harden. The Houston Rockets have clawed their way back into the playoff contention.

“He just has a mastery of the game and a control and an ease at which he plays... Nobody does what he does on a nightly basis”

— Mike D'Antoni

James Harden has stirred up the great debate as to why he’s deserves this years MVP award. Harden has channeled his focus on being the sole leader for the Rockets and with his elevated leadership role Harden set his expectations higher than ever. Coming off his MVP campaign last season, Harden continues to play his best brand of basketball averaging 33.6 points, 8.6 assists, 6 rebounds, and 2.1 steals. He has become the front-runner of the MVP race, out-duelling Giannis Antetokounmpo, Stephen Curry, Paul George, and Kawhi Leonard. His premier scoring ability and sharp shooting has captured the attention of many throughout the league. Houston best weapon Harden accounts for a large percentage of their offense, his offensive versatility makes him the biggest threat on the court. Coach Mike D’Antoni praises the superior level of play by Harden in the absence of Chris Paul and Eric Gordon. Give some credit to Coach D’Antoni who is a mastermind for the idea of putting Harden at the point guard position. When reporters asked Harden about the conversation of MVP, he clearly stated that he would be receiving that award at the end of the season. A win would not only solidify Harden as the top player in the league, but he add his name to the list of greats such as Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, Moses Malone, Tim Duncan, and Kareem Abdul-Jabar. The only NBA players that won back-to-back MVP awards in the last 10 years are LeBron James and Stephen Curry.

“You can only name a few other people that should be in the conversation. But realistically it’s coming back”

— James Harden

James Harden has solidified himself as the top offensive threat in league, surpassing Kevin Durant and Stephen Curry. Since the 2012 season, Harden has averaged 25 points or better finishing top 5 in scoring every year. The uniqueness of his game is highlighted off his crafty handles and stellar scoring ability. It’s hard to contain a player who can score from the perimeter and get in the lane to finish a play. Harden is most effective in isolation, where he leads the NBA in Iso points. Over the years Harden has faced a lot of scrutiny and criticism due to his post-season mishaps and defensive flaws. But, after last year’s playoff run Harden redefined himself as a world-class player in NBA. As of late Harden’s name has circulated in the conversation as the greatest scorer of all-time. Over the last 11 games Harden accumulated 400 points, which became the most by any player since Kobe Bryant’s 396 points outburst over 10 games in 2007. In 30 years the only players on that list was Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant. After last night’s lost to the Trailblazer’s Harden ended his 40- point streak at 5 games. As we approach the half way point of the season Harden is leads the NBA in scoring by a margin of 5 points, which is the largest margin by any player in NBA history. Harden will arguably go down as one of the leagues greatest scorers as well as a hall of fame inductee. It’s only a matter of time to see how his career will unfold.

“I will say this, James Harden is the greatest scorer in the game today. This brother is something special! He’s that sensational.”

— Stephen A. Smith

Thanks: ESPN, NBA,Bleacher Report, Hoop Scene

Athlete: James Harden

2018 was filled with lasting memories that highlighted several moments of joy, success, and nostalgia. Here are some memorable moments that became pretty significant this year. I believe in pushing the culture forward in the right direction and providing an authentic experience for my audiences. This year I’ve selected 5 defining moments that I will share with my audience, while highlighting some key lessons gained within these experiences. This is my reminder that sports can be used as a vehicle, which guides you on an adventurous journey. A journey will reveal many of your deepest qualities, highlight your passions and create your own narrative. In 2018 I’ve been fortunate to share my experiences with my audiences of the TWINGQ brand and also my community. Here’s a recap of what 2018 had in store.

4th Annual Anthony Bennett Skills Academy

The 4th Annual Anthony Bennett Skills Academy is a prominent basketball camp in Toronto. It aims to encourage kids to maximize their full potential, as well as hone their skills on the basketball court. The camp included some of the top prospects ages 9-16 across the GTA; who got the opportunity to compete on big stage. Over the years, Anthony Bennett has opened doors for several kids and looks forward to inspiring the next generation of youths. It’s always an incredible feeling to be able to give back to the community, especially through sports. It’s become something that I look forward to every year; The Anthony Bennett Skills Academy creates a positive atmosphere where kids develop the right tools to become good student-athletes. The one-day camp includes skill development stations, conditioning drills, and a tournament. It’s quite a sight to see each kid competing and laying it all on the hardwood. To conclude camp, players received powerful words of wisdom from Randy Rozaay (CEO of Rozaay MGMT) and Anthony Bennett. Also several kids were recognized and received special awards. Next year will mark the 5th Annual AB Skills Academy, I’m looking forward to seeing the new crops of kids grows and develop into stars.

“Every year I see tremendous improvement and it’s fun to watch you guys compete out there, it’s just inspiring. ”

— Anthony Bennett

***Coach Hussein***

Photo by: Steven Van (@stevenvan)

Rumble In The Jungle 2018

The 4th Annual Rumble in the Jungle made its mark in 2018, the 1-day event included 2 showcase basketball games. Over the years, Scarborough has become the epicentre for top-tier prospects and what better way to share it with our community. Each year we look to unite the Scarborough community with our divine basketball culture, the Rumble has grown to be a unique representation of that. To be able to give back to my community each year is an incredible accomplishment and I take pride in continuing to push the culture forward for that reason. Growing up basketball had so much of a cultural impact in Scarborough; it helped bridge the gap between communities and culture. Basketball gave kids a sense of belonging and something to strive for. We started to aspire for new heights because of our love for the sport. Overall, The 4th Annual Rumble of Jungle provided our audience with high-quality entertainment. This was a special step in the right direction for Scarborough; we need to support more positive initiatives that highlights our unique basketball culture. Next year, will mark the 5th year anniversary for The Rumble in the Jungle. Let’s see what TWINGQ has in stores. It’s safe to say, that the Rumble In The Jungle embodies the rich basketball culture of St. John Paul II C.S.S.

“It’s always important to give back to your roots, without the foundation who knows where I would be. Basketball has opened so many doors for me.”

— TWINGQ

45th Annual Nike Drew League

As we all know, The Drew league has catapulted into the top Pro-Am in North America. The Drew has sustained a competitive atmosphere that attracts the top pros and college players worldwide. Every year about 360 hoopers look forward to grace the hardwood at King Drew High School. No excuse, just produce, that’s the motto each team hopes to embody during each season. The Drew highlights a unique clash between NBA players and local LA talent. 3-time MVP, Frank Nitty has carved a unique legacy and he has no problem telling you about it. Nitty has become a fan favourite due to his ferocious play and competitive spirit. He consistently challenges top-tier players in the league; a memorable moment from last season is when Frank Nitty competed against Denzel Valentine of the Chicago Bulls. Birdie’s Revenge ended up with the W and Frank Nitty was the star of the show finishing with 44 points. With NBA stars in the crowd Nitty made sure he didn’t disappoint, they were in awe of his heroic performance. Every year The Drew seems to live up the expectation and provides a place of entertainment for the community, for 45 years The Drew continues to break barriers and sets the precedent for Pro-Ams across the globe.

“Come get this 1 on 1 fade! You don’t want it.”

— Frank Nitty

Dyckman Basketball: Dominican Power vs. Strictly Business

Friday night-lights, the main event at Dyckman Park featured a clash between Dominican Power and Strictly Business. There’s nothing like NYC basketball in the summer. Dyckman Basketball has gained national notoriety over the last few years, due to their unique “Madison Square Garden”-like atmosphere. Trey Burke of The New York Knicks decided to put on a show for the crowd, erupting for 35 points. The one thing about Dyckman basketball is if you don’t bring your “A” game the crowd will let you hear it. The tandem of Trey Burke and Chris McCullough seemed to be a handful for Strictly business in the first half. But the stellar play of Trahson “Tom Shepp” guided Strictly Business back into the game. Trey Burke decided to take matters into his own hands, he went off on a 10-point scoring run that brought Dominican power within reach. But Tom Shepp and Strictly Business had too much firepower that night. Dominican Power fell short 95-91; the epic duel between Trey Burke and Tom Shepp was a memorable moment from the 2018 Dyckman season. The Dyckman tournament has been the home to NBA stars like Kemba Walker, Kevin Durant, Lance Stephenson, and more. What makes Dyckman basketball so unique is the crowd; they bring a different type of energy that people haven’t seen before. Next season what epic battle will we witness? Remember that all roads lead to Dyckman.

“We’ve created the slogan Dyckman basketball, The Red Carpet Of Streetball”

— Ken Stevens

Trey Burke_Dyckman.jpg — Trey Burke

New York Knicks Guard

Rico Hines “UCLA Runs”

During the off-season Los Angeles has become a melting pot for pros and NBA hopefuls. Each year the top skill coaches and agents head to LA to set up their operations for pre-draft. An annual ritual that have caught the attention of the top professionals is Rico’s UCLA runs, all summer long UCLA alumni opens the door to give back to his community. Rico has been responsible for the development of several top-tier college prospects and NBA stars (Jalen Hands, Corey Sanders, Thomas Bryant, and Pascal Siakam). UCLA’ has become sacred to the basketball fraternity and a place where NBA hopefuls can get a taste of what the NBA game is all about. By July, the gym courts are filled with NBA stars and draftees. On one court you’ll have Paul George and James Harden teaming up against Blake Griffin and Russell Westbrook, and on the other court you have Ben Simmons putting on a show. There is no better atmosphere on the west coast than UCLA runs. On the east coast Chris Brickley’s private runs have also attracted top NBA talent to his gym. During the Men’s fashion week, LeBron James and Ben Simmons shut down the gym. In a matter of minutes highlight videos circulated across social media and eventually went viral. One memorable moment from Rico Hines’ runs is when MVP James Harden made his debut, he showed all the players why he’s a MVP. His playmaking ability and sharp shooting led his team to several wins that day. Also, Rico provides mentorship as an extension of his platform for NBA stars and college athletes in hopes of them maximizing their potentials. It’s not hard to find a good pro run in LA, head down to westwood and get a sweat at UCLA’s legendary SAC gym.

“Know your big picture, whatever that may be. Whether its NBA, overseas, or college!”

— Rico Hines

Thanks: Nike, Drew League, Dyckman Basketball, Hometeam Hoops, Rozaay MGMT,

Photos by: Aaron Poole, Ryan Currie, Bryant Alexander, Mariam Konate

We Sell Mindset, Not Products

"Harden" The Paint | James Harden Chases greatness / January 7, 2019 by Hussein Abdullahi

2018: A Year In Review | TGQ 5 of 2018 / December 28, 2018 by Hussein Abdullahi