James Harden: I’m Going to Focus on What I Can Control

There doesn’t appear to be a resolution on the way for star guard James Harden and the 76ers if the latest Harden interview is an indication.

Dressed in a white t-shirt and standing with arms folded, Harden took a polite-but-honest approach when speaking with Jason Bristol of KHOU-TV about the ongoing drama in Philadelphia.

Harden recently returned to the U.S. after a brief visit to China, where he called Sixers head of basketball operations Daryl Morey a “liar” during an Adidas event.

He was a bit more reserved, though still very honest, when speaking with Bristol.

“I’ve been patient all summer,” Harden said, implying he is waiting for his trade request to be met. “For me, it’s just focus on what I can control and that’s working out, staying in shape and getting ready for the season.”

When asked if the relationship between Harden and the Sixers was repairable, Harden was again direct.

“I don’t think so,” he said.

Harden has been angling for a trade to the Clippers, though Morey and LA reportedly have not come close to anything resembling a deal. It is believed Harden, who is on a one-year, $35.6 million contract, would be open to playing for more teams than just Los Angeles — though that remains his preferred destination, sources said.

EXCLUSIVE: James Harden tells me he thinks his relationship w/ 76ers is beyond repair.
"I've been patient all summer."
Back from China, he's in #Houston for his 'JH-Town Weekend,' including kids carnival & celebrity softball game for charity.
Story: https://t.co/qDTacHfa51 @KHOU pic.twitter.com/gSDdAVoo9S

— Jason Bristol (@JBristolKHOU) August 18, 2023