Sixers’ James Harden shimmies, airballs three-point attempt

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The NBA returned Tuesday night and so did some of its stars. 

LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers opened the season against Steph Curry and the Golden State Warriors, while Jayson Tatum and the Boston Celtics beat Joel Embiid and the Philadelphia 76ers as they attempt to duplicate the success of last season. 

James Harden, #1 of the Philadelphia 76ers, drives to the basket during the game against the Boston Celtics on Oct. 18, 2022 at the TD Garden in Boston. (Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images)

Embiid’s running mate, James Harden, also made his 2022-2023 NBA season debut, putting up solid numbers in a 126-117 loss in Boston. 

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Harden, looking in shape to start the year, shot 9-14 from the field for a team-high 35 points, adding eight rebounds and seven assists in a quality start to the season.  

James Harden, #1 of the Philadelphia 76ers, shoots the ball during the game against the Boston Celtics on Oct. 18, 2022 at the TD Garden in Boston. (Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images)

However, there was one moment for Harden which he will not look upon fondly on. 

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Late in the second quarter, Harden crossed up Celtics guard Marcus Smart at the top of the key, sending Smart flying to the floor as the 2022 Defensive Player of the Year attempted to sell a foul with a flop. 

Harden, now all alone at the top of the key, shimmied before launching a three-pointer, and hit nothing but air. 

Despite the embarrassing airball, Harden looked rejuvenated after a wildly disappointing end to 2021-2022 postseason,