• Loading stock data...
Monday, June 16, 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

Feb 7, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; A detailed view of the shoes worn by Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) in the second half against the Detroit Red Wings at Little Caesars Arena.

Skechers Runs Away From Uncertain Public Markets

The footwear maker’s roster of athletes includes Joel Embiid and Julius Randle.

After Getting Sixers to Stay, Comcast Putting Its Own Name on Arena

Comcast will spotlight its mobile business at the South Philadelphia venue.
July 9, 2009; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Detroit Pistons president Joe Dumars during the press conference to introduce their new head coach John Kuester at their practice facility.

Joe Dumars Leaving NBA League Office to Run Pelicans

Joe Dumars was the architect of the 2004 champion Pistons.
Mar 20, 2025; Providence, RI, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks forward Karter Knox (11) controls the ball against Kansas Jayhawks during the first half at Amica Mutual Pavilion.

Men’s March Madness Sets Opening-Day Viewership Record

CBS Sports and TNT Sports scored big with Arkansas–Kansas.

Featured Today

Dec 5, 2024; Miami, FL, USA; FIFA president Gianni Infantino presents the FIFA Club World Cup trophy during the Club Word Cup draw at Telemundo Studios.

Revamped Club World Cup Is FIFA’s Billion-Dollar Gamble

The revamped soccer event debuts amid controversy.
Jun 10, 2025; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; United States head coach Mauricio Pochettino stands during the anthem against the Switzerland during the first at Geodis Park
June 14, 2025

Gold Cup Is Complicated for USMNT—but U.S. Soccer Has Its Eyes on..

Uncertain tournament success isn’t fazing forward-looking U.S. soccer.
Jan 24, 2017; Davidson, NC, USA; The Davidson Wildcats student section cheers during the first half against the Duquesne Dukes at McKillop Court at John M. Belk Arena. Davidson defeated Duquesne 74-60.
June 6, 2025

Every College Wants a Flashy Basketball GM Hire Right Now

The role is more important than ever, and the definition is ever-evolving.
August 31, 2024; Columbus, Ohio, USA; The Goodyear blimp flies over Ohio Stadium during the first half of Saturday’s NCAA Division I football game between the Akron Zips and the Ohio State Buckeyes.
June 6, 2025

Why the Goodyear Blimp Is at Every Major Sports Event

The airship wasn’t built to cover sports. Now it’s a regular presence.
Devers

Devers Stunner Only Part of Wild Week for Fenway Sports Group

Red Sox fans immediately started making connections to soccer.
June 15, 2025

USMNT–Pulisic Drama Hits Gold Cup as FIFA’s Club World Cup Looms

The Gold Cup is being played at the same time as FIFA’s Club World Cup.
June 15, 2025

150–1 Longshot Spaun Wins Record U.S. Open Prize After Carnage at Oakmont

J.J. Spaun had only won once on the PGA Tour.
Sponsored

Game On: Portfolio Players Stories, Brought to You by E*TRADE from Morgan Stanley

Ted Leonsis unpacks basketball’s global rise, media rights, and portfolio ownership.
June 14, 2025

Caitlin Clark Return Draws Sellout 15 Hours After Pacers Finals Game

Fever TV ratings dropped significantly while Clark was out.
Caitlin Clark
June 13, 2025

Caitlin Clark Likely to Return in Boost for ESPN, WNBA

Clark has missed the past five games due to a quad injury. 
Sloane Stephens
June 11, 2025

WTA Adds Player Ranking Protection for Fertility Treatment 

The new policy is believed to be the first of its kind. 
Jan 26, 2025; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (8) against the Buffalo Bills in the AFC Championship game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium.
June 11, 2025

DeAndre Hopkins Eyes Venture Capital, Team Ownership

Hopkins, a 12-year NFL veteran, is anticipating his post-career.