Houston Fans React as Llull Recalls Harden Recruiting Pitch — and Harden Doesn’t Remember

Houston Rockets fans love a good NBA storyline, and this week delivered a surprising one. Former Rockets draft pick Sergio Llull shared that James Harden personally called years ago to persuade him to make the jump to the NBA. But Harden, now with the Los Angeles Clippers, says he has no memory of the call. The story has sparked nostalgia and debate across the basketball world, especially in Houston.

Llull, a longtime Real Madrid star, was drafted by the Rockets in 2009. For years, Houston fans hoped he would finally make the move and join the NBA. According to Llull, Harden reached out during his Rockets tenure to help seal the deal. Llull ultimately stayed overseas and became a European legend.

When asked this week about the call, Harden responded with surprise. He said he hadn’t heard that story and didn’t remember reaching out about recruiting Llull. Whether it happened or not, the exchange brought back memories of a different era for the Rockets — one where Harden was the centerpiece of Houston basketball and the team was chasing titles.

Why It Matters for Houston

Even though the conversation happened years ago, the story highlights how aggressively the Rockets once pursued Llull. Many within the fanbase still wonder what he might have brought to Houston’s roster during the Harden era. Llull’s scoring ability and international experience made him one of the most anticipated overseas prospects ever linked to the franchise.

The renewed attention also comes during a time when the Rockets are building a new identity with a young core. Fans enjoy revisiting the past while looking ahead to what this new roster may become.

What’s Next

Llull remains committed to Real Madrid, and there are no signs he plans to explore the NBA again. Harden continues to make headlines in Los Angeles. But for Houston fans, this small moment offered a fun reminder of the global reach of the Rockets organization and the long list of “what if” stories that still spark discussion.

This article is a summary of reporting by Mundo Deportivo. Read the full story here.