• Loading stock data...
Thursday, October 23, 2025

Stakes Are High For The Sixers’ James Harden Investment

  • James Harden will make his debut with the 76ers on Friday night.
  • Philly’s franchise finances are tied with him for the foreseeable future — especially when he’s due for a historic extension.
Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports/Design: John Regula

James Harden’s 76ers jersey is already topping sales at Fanatics — and on Friday, the most popular guy in Philadelphia will finally suit up for his new team against Minnesota. 

Now, Philly’s success hinges on whether an embattled former MVP can coexist with one of this season’s top candidates for the trophy, Joel Embiid.

President Daryl Morey’s deadline decision also means the franchise’s finances are tied up with Harden for the foreseeable future — especially if he signs a historic extension.

  • Philly’s trio of Embiid, Harden, and Tobias Harris account for $111.8 million (75.5%) of the Sixers’ $148 million payroll.
  • In June, Harden will opt into the final year of his deal worth $47.3 million in 2022-23.
  • Two months later, Harden will likely sign a four-year, $223 million contract ($55.8M AAV).
  • Turning 37 in 2026, he’d be the first in NBA history to make $60 million annually. 

Harden is averaging his fewest points since 2011-12 (22.5), leading the NBA in turnovers per game (4.8), and is shooting a career-worst 33.2% from three and second-worst 41.4% from the field. 

And Doc Rivers could have his hands full if Harden slows down the pace of the Sixers offense. Plus, Harden has clashed with star partners in the past — Chris Paul, Russell Westbrook, and most recently Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving.

Philly’s infamous Process will only have been worth it if the Sixers win a title. They’re currently the 3-seed in the East and the fourth-favorite (+700*) for the Larry O’Brien Trophy.

Linkedin
Whatsapp
Copy Link
Link Copied
Link Copied

What to Read

Sep 25, 2025; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Celtics lead owner and governor Bill Chisholm speaks during a press conference at Auerbach Center.

The NBA’s Expanding Private-Equity Footprint

There is a PE connection of some kind for 20 of 30 teams.
Aug 3, 2024; Villeneuve-d'Ascq, France; NBA commissioner Adam Silver talks to International Basketball Federation board member Mark Tatum in the fourth quarter between the United States and Puerto Rico during the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games at Stade Pierre-Mauroy.

NBA Aims for Drama-Free Return to China After 6-Year Hiatus

The league looks to rebuild its presence in the populous country.
Jun 19, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indiana Pacers forward Pascal Siakam (43) shoots the ball against Oklahoma City Thunder guard Isaiah Joe (11) during the second half of game six of the 2025 NBA Finals between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

NBA to Sell Franchises in Basketball Africa League

Suns rookie Khaman Maluach played in the BAL before going to Duke.

Trump Push to End Quarterly Earnings Has Major Sports Ramifications

U.S. President Trump proposes moving to semi-annual reporting for public companies.

Featured Today

Christie's

Lou Gehrig’s $4M Jersey and the Exploding Sports Memorabilia Market

An ultra-rare sports collection is about to hit the auction block.
@chef__tezz/Instagram
October 19, 2025

Inside the NFL’s Private Chef Network

Private chefs are the unsung architects of player performance.
October 18, 2025

How Vanderbilt Went From SEC Doormat to Dark Horse CFP Candidate

After beating LSU, Clark Lea said: “Internally, we expect to win.”
May 27, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indiana Pacers guard T.J. McConnell (9) shoots a three point basket over New York Knicks guard Josh Hart (3) during the third quarter of game four of the eastern conference finals for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Gainbridge Fieldhouse
October 18, 2025

NBA Stars Swap Wine With League Friends and Foes

A wine-exchange tradition emerged from the bubble season’s close quarters.
Malik Beasley

After NBA Gambling Arrests, Where Does Malik Beasley Stand?

Beasley was in line to receive a three-year deal from the Pistons.
Malonga
October 21, 2025

Turkish Dispute Could Cloud French Star’s Return to WNBA 

Fenerbahçe needs to give Dominique Malonga a “letter of clearance.”
October 22, 2025

Michelle Wie West: LPGA Earnings vs Endorsements ‘Leveling Out’

Wie West is now retired and focused on investing.
Sponsored

How HOKA is Reimagining the NIL Relationship

Fans can now follow their favorite golfers and experience every marquee moment at the Ryder Cup — thanks to innovation from T-Mobile.
Keegan Murray
October 21, 2025

$20 Million Per Year Becoming New Baseline for NBA Role Players

Christian Braun signed a five-year deal worth $125 million.
Jamier Brown
October 21, 2025

Judge Temporarily Allows Ohio High Schoolers to Make NIL Deals

Most states do not restrict high school NIL deals.
October 21, 2025

Nicklaus Wins $50M Defamation Lawsuit Over False LIV Golf Claims

The legendary golfer sued his former company.
Sponsored

How HOKA is Reimagining the NIL Relationship

Fans can now follow their favorite golfers and experience every marquee moment at the Ryder Cup — thanks to innovation from T-Mobile.