Author: Monojit Mandal
James Harden, the Philadelphia 76ers’ star point guard, made a determined return to the team’s NBA training camp on Wednesday, making his presence felt on the Colorado State campus. Despite ongoing trade rumors and a strained relationship with Sixers management, Harden went straight to training camp, giving the impression that he was fully committed to the team’s upcoming season.
Harden returned to the 76ers after missing the team’s media day in New Jersey earlier in the week and the first day of training camp in Colorado. The 10-time All-Star had already declared his desire to be traded, going so far as to openly criticize team president Daryl Morey during a promotional event in China, calling him a “liar”.
However, on Wednesday, attention turned to Harden’s behavior on the court, rather than his complaints off it. According to Nick Nurse, the Sixers’ new coach, he had a fruitful conversation with Harden just before training camp, which indicates a possible easing of their relationship.
Harden’s return sent a clear message to his teammates, who welcomed him warmly. Tobias Harris, a teammate, emphasized that Harden’s presence on the court demonstrated his loyalty to the squad’s goals. “His involvement, in my opinion, is related to the fact that he is here,” said Harris. “His manner and vigor today made that clear to everyone.” He wants to come here and compete with us to make things happen. That’s all that matters: his passion and commitment to me and the rest of the team.“
The 76ers are now practicing at the Moby Arena, which also houses the Colorado State Rams basketball teams. Despite the presence of the media, Harden preferred not to speak to reporters, letting his actions on the court speak for themselves. His colleagues, who were well acquainted with the commercial elements of professional basketball, seemed to understand his position.
With the start of Sixers training camp in picturesque Fort Collins, Colorado, Sixers owner David Adelman revealed that coach Nurse requested that the trip to Colorado include high-altitude training, taking advantage of the elevation of the site, which is about 1,000 meters above sea level. This measure was taken to improve the team’s conditioning and performance, which could give the Sixers an advantage next season.