LOS ANGELES – Superstar NBA guard James Harden and the Philadelphia 76ers continue to unveil the latest details of a one -on -one contract that will earn him a $ 15 million deal. But Harden said he is “locked in” with the Sixers and is willing to go to work.
In an exclusive interview with Yahoo Sports on Sunday, the 10-time All-Star revealed why he was willing to sacrifice finances for the betterment of the team, he touched on external additions , discusses where he is in the body, discusses his partnership with Joel Embiid and he announced the launch of his first signature wine collection, “J-Harden.”
At the end of the 2021-22 Sixers season, depth was identified as an important and bright weakness. Harden and Sixers basketball activities president Daryl Morey held discussions later about how the team could jump into next season.
“I talked to Daryl, and he explained how we could get better and what the market price would be for some players. I asked Daryl to improve the roster, sign who we should sign. and give me whatever is left, “Harden told Yahoo Sports.” It’s too bad I want to win. I want to compete for a championship. It’s just that matters to me. I’m in this position. I’m willing to do a little something to put us in a position to achieve that. “
The Sixers signed defensive tackle P.J. Tucker from Miami for three years, $ 33 million; signed Danuel House for two years, $ 8.5 million; detective De’Anthony Melton was picked up through a bargain; and signed Trevelin Queen, the 2021-22 G League MVP.
“I think our team is much deeper,” Harden told Yahoo Sports. “That’s what we wanted to talk about. If you look at our team now, we are set to move forward. I like the way we team up with the other top teams. “
In order for the Sixers to reach their full potential, Harden needs to get back close to his normal routine. The 2018 MVP has suffered a number of injuries in the past season, including a delicate right leg injury.
He immediately complained about his play during the 21 regular games he played in Philadelphia after being bought from Brooklyn. His attacking stats didn’t match his regular attacks, but the 32 -year -old still averaged 21 points, 7.1 rebounds and 10.5 assists for the Sixers.
“I don’t really listen to what people are saying. I was wrong last season and I almost took it twice, ”Harden told Yahoo Sports. “If anyone got those numbers, we talk about them getting high. People used to see me averaging 40, 30 points, and so they saw it as a year. fall.I was in Philadelphia for a few months and I had to train on the fly.That was exactly what it was.I am in a good position physically and mentally now, and I’m looking forward to the next season.
Harden and the famous brother Embiid will be present to everyone on the same page.
“I talk a lot with Joel and we have meetings about how we’re going to play and what we need to do to help our team win a championship,” he said. Harden and Yahoo Sports. “When you have two great players in position on the same team, that’s a great building block. We will grow together and try to lead this team up. I believe we can do it together. ”
Currently, Harden is investigating his business out of court.
He has partnered with Accolade Wines to release its first signature wine, “J-Harden,” which is set to be available for purchase online and through popular retailers in the United States starting Sept. 1st. The expected purchase price is $ 16.99.
James Harden teamed up with Accolade Wines to launch the J-HARDEN wine collection. (Courtesy of Accolade Wines)
“Harden and his team will also have a stake in the wine order, design and style. The J-HARDEN brand will include the look of Harden’s signature brand with bright colors and a flower petals in a portrait of Harden’s face, ”according to a news report. “As a 10-time NBA All-Star and the third-leading 3-point scorer in NBA history, Harden plans to share his own wine journey with fans in his social media and welcome J -HARDEN to stores and customers around the world. “
“I wanted to make a wine that was cheap, but there was also a sale,” Harden told Yahoo Sports. “When you look at the design of our bottle, it stands out. There’s a little scary stuff. Unlike all other bottles of wine it is very similar. We want it to stand out and we welcome you to the deliciousness of its taste. We have California Cabernet Sauvignon and California Red Blend. So we found something for all wine buyers. I am so excited for this opportunity. I think customers will be very happy with this. ”
Customers can register for first-time access to “J-HARDEN” at www.j-hardenwines.com.
