NBA says flashy move by Rockets' James Harden wasn't traveling

There was no debating the artistry of a move made by Houston Rockets guard James Harden during a preseason game against the Shanghai Sharks on Tuesday night, but it did stir up some debate as to whether or not it was traveling.

The NBA on Wednesday said no and that Harden's move was legitimate.

With Harden slowly walking toward the 3-point line with a 103-63 lead, he dribbled between his legs -- front to back -- and then used his left hand behind his back to flip the ball to his right hand while making a side step to his right. He then launched and made his ninth 3-pointer of the game.

"This is a legal play," the NBA said on its Twitter account that provides updates directly from the league office on officiating and rule clarifications. "Although James puts the ball behind his back, he only takes two steps after the gather of the ball and therefore is NOT a travel."