James Harden is in Spain with the Cavaliers. Apparently, he wouldn’t mind playing there, either.
Harden told Spanish outlet Cadena SER after Cleveland’s first training-camp practice Wednesday that he would “love” to play in Spain someday, though the 37-year-old made clear his immediate priority remains trying to win an NBA championship with the Cavs.
Harden also praised the country, its people, food and weather as Cleveland settles into its unusual overseas camp in Málaga.
The Cavs practiced Wednesday at The Embassy in Andalusia, with Harden and Donovan Mitchell among the players who spoke afterward. Coach Kenny Atkinson said getting the team outside its normal surroundings is part of the point.
Atkinson believes being immersed in another culture and spending extended time together can help create an edge once the actual basketball begins.
The Cavs will practice in Spain through the weekend, concluding the trip with a public scrimmage at Martín Carpena Arena in Málaga before returning home. Cleveland opens its preseason against the Celtics on Oct. 8.
As for Harden someday sticking around in Spain a little longer? Never say never.
But considering he just re-signed with the Cavs and Cleveland has championship aspirations, the Spanish league probably shouldn’t start printing Harden jerseys just yet.
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