James Harden is will soon enter Year 18 of his NBA career.
And while the former MVP admitted he’s beginning to think about life after basketball, retirement doesn’t appear especially close just yet.
Speaking with Marc J. Spears of Andscape, Harden said he “definitely” wants to reach the 20-season mark in the NBA and still feels he has plenty left to give.
More importantly for the Cavaliers, Harden again made it clear he hopes to remain in Cleveland moving forward.
The veteran guard previously said after the Cavs’ season-ending loss to the New York Knicks that he wants to return next season. He echoed that same mindset again in speaking with Spears.
Harden also sounded very aware of where he is at this stage of his career.
“I told the guys I’m willing to do whatever it takes,” Harden said. “If I got to play off the ball, less shots, I’m willing to do it.”
That willingness to adapt could become important for a Cavaliers team still trying to figure out how to maximize its roster after reaching the Eastern Conference finals for the first time without LeBron James since 1992.
“I don’t have no pride,” Harden added. “I just want to win.”
Harden believes a full offseason and training camp with Cleveland could also help the group take another step next year after he arrived midway through the season.
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