"Happy bday to my ni**a!" - James Harden's girlfriend Paije Speights wishes Clippers star on his special day
James Harden celebrated his 35th birthday on Monday, Aug. 26. It was the first time his girlfriend, Paije Speights, celebrated his special day since their relationship became public.
In an Instagram story, Speights wished her LA Clippers star boyfriend a happy birthday and showed her love for "The Beard." In the first picture that she uploaded, Harden is seen playfully holding her cheek. With Lil Wayne's "I Miss My Dawgs" playing in the background, Speights captioned the post:
"Happy birthday to my ni**a! My dawg ❤️"
In the next post, she re-shared an upload from former hooper Troy Payne. In the picture, Payne was seen with his wife, while Harden sat beside Speights. Payne had captioned the post:
"More life, more blessings! Happy bday UNO!"
James Harden and Paije Speights kept their relationship out of the public eye for a long time. However, the couple's relationship was made known when a video from Rajon Rondo's wedding in June went viral on the internet. In the video, Speights caught the bride's bouquet and, when she turned to hug Harden, he froze — whether in jest or sincerely — and gave a deadpan expression.
James Harden's girlfriend gives her clarification on the viral video
After the video went viral, Paije Speights cleared the air on Instagram:
"I wasn't even participating lol I'm standing outside the circle in the back. The bouquet landed right at my feet. Hey a win is a win."
The couple has been officially dating for less than a year, having started their relationship after James Harden's breakup with Jessyka Janshel. From Speights' social media feed, it appears the couple is enjoying their time together.
As for Harden's basketball career, last season, with Paul George and Kawhi Leonard on the roster, he was in his best position to win a title since his time with the Brooklyn Nets. However, with George gone, Harden's chances of winning a title look far-fetched.