The 2025 NBA All-Star event created tremendous excitement among basketball fans.

James Harden (Photo by Darren Yamashita/Imagn Images)
It featured some of the league’s most talented players in an exhilarating weekend of competitions and entertainment. Participants were eager to showcase their skills and enjoy a memorable time with fellow athletes and their fans. However, the event turned into a nightmare for Los Angeles Clippers star James Harden.

Before the 2025 NBA All-Star Game, Harden addressed the media regarding his return to Oakland Arena, previously known as Oracle Arena. Reflecting on his numerous tough losses against the Golden State Warriors in this arena, Harden indicated that this return presents a significant emotional challenge for him.

“Being in this arena gives me nightmares because I had to go against them. It was like a real battle. We literally created teams just to beat the Warriors and somehow, someway, they always ended up in the Finals.” Harden said.

Harden faced the Warriors in four postseason series during his time with the Houston Rockets. Unfortunately for Harden, the Warriors eliminated the Rockets in each series. He reflected on these defeats and stated that playing again in that arena was a nightmare for him.

James Harden Opens Up About Stephen Curry Ahead Of The 2025 NBA All-Star Game

Harden spent nine seasons with the Rockets, solidifying his reputation as an elite player and earning the NBA MVP award in 2017. Throughout his tenure with the Rockets, he developed a prominent rivalry with Stephen Curry. As both exceptional athletes gear up for their 11th NBA All-Star appearance at the 2025 NBA All-Star event, Harden articulated his sentiments regarding Curry forthrightly.

“We came in the same year, he’s changed the game… His aura, obviously, his shooting, his presence.” Harden said.

Before the 2025 NBA All-Star event, Harden reminisced about his time spent with other NBA stars, having been teammates in the All-Star Game alongside Stephen Curry, LeBron James, and Kevin Durant.