Why James Harden’s Claim About Daryl Morey Breaking Max Deal Promise Ended Their Relationship

James Harden Finally Reveals Reason for Fallout with Daryl Morey

After much speculation, James Harden has finally broken his silence about the reason behind his ten-year relationship ending with Daryl Morey, who currently serves as the president of basketball operations for the Philadelphia 76ers and previously was the general manager of the Houston Rockets.

Harden has confirmed what many reports have suggested all along – that Morey had promised him a max extension. However, when Morey failed to reach out to him last summer, Harden felt deeply betrayed, causing the rift in their relationship.

The Athletic’s Sam Amick recently interviewed Harden and posed the question about the supposed deal that the Sixers were said to have in place.

However, Amick’s attempt to pin down the timing of when Morey had promised the max extension to Harden proved challenging.

Harden shared that this crucial conversation took place before the playoffs last season when Morey had discussions with his representation.

Harden disclosed that the feeling of betrayal only deepened when he opted into his 2023-24 deal with the Sixers, which came with a request for a trade to the Los Angeles Clippers. The process was projected to take just ten days, but it extended to over four and a half months before the final trade to the Clippers was made.

Harden’s public criticism of Morey was met with a $100,000 fine from the NBA, and he made it clear in his interview with Amick that there was no chance to repair his relationship with Morey.

In his own words, Harden expressed, “There’s too much money, too much respect (lost) and too much loyalty on my end to even double back (with Morey). There’s nothing to talk about. This is real money.”

Harden also quoted the iconic words of Taylor Swift, saying, “We are never, ever getting back together.”

This revelation offers a candid insight into the breakdown of Harden and Morey’s once-strong relationship.

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Emily Turner

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