Basketball
James Harden Signs $68.6-Million Deal to Stay with Philadelphia 76ers
by privatebet.com - 2022/07/21
James Harden said he’s willing to take a major pay cut to stay with the Philadelphia 76ers, and he’s keeping his word. Instead of looking for more lucrative trade options, the ten-time All-Star signed a two-year deal to stay with the Sixers, reportedly worth $68.6 million. ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski broke the news on Harden’s contract, reporting it includes a $35.6-million player option in 2023-2024, allowing him to test free agency again next summer. Harden could’ve done it this season, as well, but he declined his $47.4-million player option to stay in Philadelphia. He even went so far as to take a pay cut to help the team sign as many players as needed. By doing so, he wanted to show the organization and the Sixers fans that he’s ready to do what it takes to help the team contend next season. Harden made this decision after having lengthy conversations with the team’s president of basketball operations, Daryl Morey, and they eventually managed to find a common ground. “I told Daryl to improve the roster, sign who we needed to sign, and give me whatever is left over. This is how bad I want to win. I want to compete for a championship. That’s all that matters to me at this stage. I’m willing to take less to put us in a position to accomplish that,” the former MVP told Yahoo Sports.