James Harden is asking a Los Angeles judge to overturn a $1.35 million verdict in a lawsuit filed by a Beverly Hills homeowner, George Santopietro, who alleged Harden committed fraud by hosting parties at a rented mansion in 2019.
What happened?
In 2019, Harden rented a luxury Beverly Hills mansion for $82,200 for one week, with an agreement limiting him to no more than seven guests. However, Santopietro alleged that Harden hosted multiple parties with more than 15 people, causing property damage and straining the homeowner's relationship with the local homeowners association.
Why it matters for James Harden
After a jury found Harden committed fraud in March 2025, he was awarded $900,000 in punitive damages and held partly responsible for another $450,000 in compensatory damages. Harden's attorneys argue that the case hinged on a misunderstanding of the lease agreement, which they claim only applied to overnight occupants, not daytime visitors.
What comes next?
Harden's legal team is seeking a new trial, arguing that the jury's findings were "against the weight of the credible evidence." If the judge declines to overturn the verdict, Harden's attorneys will seek a new trial. The case is set to be heard on August 3.
Harden, 36, was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers in February after beginning the 2023-24 season with the Los Angeles Clippers. A former Artesia High School standout, he led the program to two California state championships and is the NBA's highest-scoring left-handed player.
In earlier court filings, Harden's attorney accused Santopietro of trying to "take advantage of the tenants with the goal of extorting money from them or to get a default." The filings also alleged that Santopietro, who lives in Bangkok, "is well connected and is someone who threatens and intimidates everyone."
The case has been ongoing since September 2019, when Santopietro first filed the lawsuit against Harden and the other defendants.
Harden's attorneys argue that there was no evidence of malice, oppression, or fraud to justify punitive damages. They also claim that the jury's verdict was based on speculation, rather than concrete evidence.
The outcome of the case will be decided on August 3, when the judge will hear arguments from both sides.
Harden's legal team is confident that they can overturn the verdict and clear his name. However, if the judge declines to overturn the verdict, Harden will be forced to pay the $1.35 million in damages.
The case has sparked controversy, with many questioning whether Harden was indeed responsible for the damages. However, Harden's attorneys remain adamant that he did nothing wrong and that the lawsuit is an attempt to extort money from him.
The case will continue to unfold in the coming weeks, with the outcome hanging in the balance. One thing is certain, however: James Harden's reputation is on the line, and he will stop at nothing to clear his name.