“It’s a Business”: Having Ditched Joel Embiid’s Wedding and Refused $47,400,000 Extension, James Harden Comes to a Harsh Conclusion

James Harden has been making headlines ever since the 2022-23 NBA season came to an end. His first significant move was opting out of his $47.4M player extension with the Philadelphia 76ers. He subsequently requested a trade out of Philly, reassuring that he was on the move. Then came an extravagant 4th of July party along with his teammate, Joel Embiid. However, when it was his time to be there for his buddy, The Beard did not turn up.

James Harden is most certainly one of the most accomplished players in the NBA. His illustrious 14 year career in the NBA so far has seen him achieve several incredible milestones. His long tenure in the league has also seen him make several friends along the way. One such friend was the reigning MVP, Joel Embiid. However, when it was Harden’s time to show love for his teammate on his big day, he chose not to be there. In a recent interview, Harden opened up about what he feels about the league, also reminiscing on his extraordinary journey.

James Harden makes an unfortunate admission

James Harden set the NBA world ablaze when he joined the Philadelphia 76ers back in 2022. His hopes for a championship skyrocketed with his move. Teaming up with an MVP candidate seemed like a terrific plan to make a championship run. However, things did not work in the 10 time All Star’s favour.

The Sixers suffered the same fate they did a year prior to Harden’s arrival. The team got eliminated in the second round of the playoffs in both of Harden’s years with the franchise. Their third consecutive Semifinals exit marked the end of Harden’s stint in Philadelphia. He refused his enormous player option and requested a trade, moving away from his now, close friend, Embiid. He also famously ditched Embiid’s recent wedding, clearly indicating his exit from the Sixers.

Read More: Civil War Erupts Among Philadelphia 76ers Fans as James Harden Ditches MVP Joel Embiid’s Wedding: “His First and Only Ring”

Following his recent actions, Harden sat down for an interview with USA Today and opened up about a harsh reality of the league. When asked what he learnt along his 14 year journey in the league, the former MVP said: “I’ve learnt it’s a business.”

The Beard reminisces on his outstanding journey

James Harden possesses a Hall of Fame career which propelled his selection to the NBA Top 75 list. He is a former MVP, a 10 time All Star and a former Sixth Man of the Year. Harden also has 6 All NBA First Team selections to go with 3 scoring titles and 2 assists titles. With such a fabled career over the years, it was only fair for “The Beard” to feel proud of his achievements.

“Overall, I think I’ve had an unbelievable career. I’ve accomplished so many things individually and as a team and for me, I feel there’s so many more that I feel like I need to accomplish and want to accomplish,” he stated in the interview.

Talking about his journey in the NBA, he said, “As a kid, not really having a dream or having a vision on how to make it to the NBA….I’ve done more than anyone can ask for. I’m not settling and I still want more….put the work in until I can’t play basketball anymore.”

Despite all his major achievements in the league, Harden is not done yet. The 33 year old has never been able to win the coveted NBA championship.

Watch This Story: James Harden Risks Offending Close Friend Kevin Durant Amid Rampant Trade Rumors

His pursuit for gold has prompted him to make several “business” decisions, playing for 4 teams during his career. By requesting a trade out of Philadelphia, Harden has made it clear that he will be joining yet another team on his pursuit for NBA glory.