Brooklyn Nets star James Harden joins board of Saks’ online spinoff

Three-time NBA scoring champion James Harden is known for his leadership and decision-making skills on the court. Now, he'll get a chance to put those qualities to use off the court. 

The Brooklyn Nets guard has been named to the board of directors for Saks Fifth Avenue department stores' new e-commerce business, Saks. He is also making a minority investment in the new standalone company.

The company said in a statement that Harden “brings expertise in helping to grow high-potential consumer brands combined with a unique perspective as a notable fashion enthusiast.”

“I’ve spent a lot of time with James talking about fashion,” Saks Executive Chairman Richard Baker told Bloomberg News. “It’s good to have board members and ownership that are focused and motivated to grow the business.”

Nets guard James Harden warms up before Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinal series against the Milwaukee Bucks. (Photo: Brad Penner, USA TODAY Sports)

Baker said Saks is looking to expand its line of products, from women’s handbags to men’s clothing, to fuel growth in the company's online sales.

Harden, a nine-time NBA all-star, has a variety of business ventures outside of his basketball career. He has a sneaker and apparel line with Adidas, as well as endorsement deals with BodyArmor drinks, Stance socks and Pura fragrances.

Harden is currently recovering from a hamstring strain that kept him from playing in the Nets' 107-96 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 4 of their playoff series on Sunday. However, he hopes to be able to return for Game 5 on Tuesday night. The series is tied 2-2.

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