Harden wins NBA MVP over LeBron

SANTA MONICA, CALIF. — James Harden of the Houston Rockets is the NBA’s Most Valuable Player.

He joined Michael Jordan as the only players to average at least 20 points, eight assists, five rebounds and 1.7 steals in a season.

Harden led the league in scoring, 3-pointers and 50-point games with four while helping the Rockets to an NBA-leading 65 wins.

Harden beat out four-time winner LeBron James of Cleveland and Anthony Davis of the Pelicans.

He received the trophy at the NBA Awards on Monday night. Harden, who is from Los Angeles, led his mother on stage and credited her for being his backbone.

Return to Vindy.com and read Tuesday's Vindicator sports section for more on this developing story.