After Kawhi Leonard’s Misery, James Harden Suffers Major Setback With Personal Venture

The Los Angeles Clippers can’t seem to escape the spotlight, and not for the reasons they’d hope. After reports surfaced that Kawhi Leonard was under investigation over a controversial $28 million arrangement to circumvent the salary cap, star guard James Harden is now facing unwanted headlines.

What was meant to be a smart lifestyle investment, a high-end restaurant in the heart of Houston, has turned into a public embarrassment. Once glossy and buzzing, the venture is locked in legal and financial trouble.

“James Harden’s Thirteen restaurant has been shut down after allegedly falling $2.2M behind in rent and payments,” NBACentral reported on X, citing Chron.com. The restaurant, once a hotspot for Houston nightlife and a symbol of Harden’s post-Rockets era footprint in the city, now sits dark with creditors circling.

According to the report, the landlord shut Harden’s Midtown Houston restaurant ‘Thirteen’ after accruing $2.2 million in unpaid rent and related lease costs. A notice taped to the door states: “The door locks to the premises have been changed, and the tenant shall be excluded therefrom due to non-payment of rent.” Management can regain access only after settling the delinquency.

James Harden’s Houston restaurant Thirteen has been shut down after allegedly falling $2.2M behind in rent and payments, per https://t.co/5h5pPbcSX3 pic.twitter.com/2MyIvn8GXU

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) September 3, 2025

While the venue remains barred physically, it still accepts reservations online, suggesting a disconnect between operability and optics. The location at 1911 Bagby St. opened in early 2021 amid Harden’s trade drama and rebranded in 2024 under chef Siddartha Cadena.

(Developing story …)

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