Oklahoma City Thunder's James Harden added to Rookie Challenge roster

Oklahoma City Thunder guard James Harden has been named as a replacement for Friday night's Rookie Challenge at NBA All-Star Weekend.

Harden will step in for Sacramento guard and reigning Rookie of the Year Tyreke Evans on the Sophomore squad. Evans has battled plantar fasciitis for much of this season and missed Tuesday's game against the Thunder in Oklahoma City because of the injury.

Harden was the next leading vote-getter by the league's assistant coaches for the game's 18-man roster. Each team was permitted to submit one ballot.

With his inclusion, Harden now becomes the fourth Thunder player scheduled to participate in events at All-Star Weekend.