Lil Baby-James Harden friendship timeline explored: Taking closer look at NBA star and rapper's relationship

James Harden, one of the NBA's most high-profile and controversial figures, has become a frequent subject of media attention. His recent trade request from the Philadelphia 76ers has placed him at the center of numerous discussions.

Aside from his latest trade request, another thing that the media and the fans have given attention to is his friendship with Lil Baby. This association dates back to Harden's tenure with the Houston Rockets.

According to a quick interview with TMZ that was posted in February, Lil Baby said that he shares a certain trait with Harden. This trait is a major part of why they are friends.

"He's my guy. He's a sniper, I'm a sniper," Lil Baby said as he got in an SUV.

The TMZ reporter also asked if they've bonded since day one to which he simply said yes.

Beyond their personal connection, the two have collaborated professionally. James Harden, according to Distractify, produced Lil Baby's record titled "Voice of the Heroes" when he constructed a recording studio in his Houston home. Their friendship seems to have blossomed in 2020, coinciding with Harden's production of Lil Baby's record.

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The Philadelphia 76ers are preparing to play without James Harden

James Harden has publicly called Daryl Morey, the Philadelphia 76ers president of basketball operations, a liar. Since then, the league's fans have been anticipating how the situation might develop.

It is still unclear where the disgruntled guard might be traded to, but he has been a no-show for all of the team's preseason games. Aside from that, he has also been absent from this week's practices which is an indication that he might not be around for them when the regular season begins.

In an article written by Dan Gelston, posted on NBA.com, 76ers head coach Nick Nurse has been preparing to play without Harden.

"I think I've been preparing for it all this week for sure," Nick Nurse said. "Lots of thought has gone into him not playing and preparing the team that way this summer."

Preparing the team in this way will certainly benefit the 76ers since Harden might not be with the team for too long anyway. All signs point towards him getting traded although it is still unclear where he might end up or when he might be moved.