The Philadelphia 76ers secured a 121-107 victory against the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday and are gearing up for another showdown during Wednesday’s NBA action.
These matchups mark the team’s first interaction with James Harden since his move to the Clippers, but the atmosphere suggests any past tension has dissolved.
“It seems like it’s been a long time—I don’t know if anybody is even mad anymore,” Sixers head coach Nick Nurse said.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: James Harden, Los Angeles Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
Tyrese Maxey resounded no hard feelings over Harden’s move to the Clippers, expressing his gratitude for their time together as teammates.
“We didn’t take it personal at all,” Maxey said. “Even when James came to training camp, whenever he was there, he was nice to us, he was good.” He continued to express his ongoing connection with Harden, referring to him as his “brother.”
Tobias Harris also shared his respect and admiration for Harden’s impact throughout his NBA career, describing him as a “Hall of Fame player.” Harris is grateful to have been Harden’s teammate during their time with the Sixers.
“James is a hell of a player, and I’ll always have a huge amount of respect for him,” Harris said. “Playing with him here, it’s good to see him playing in L.A., flourishing and playing his game and just ballin’ out. It’s all love and respect. He’s a Hall of Fame player, and for me it was an honor being here, playing with him.”
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: James Harden, Los Angeles Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
Despite the friendly reunions, the Sixers are focused on the challenges ahead. Currently positioned eighth in the Eastern Conference with a 39-32 record, they’re on the cusp of the Play-In Tournament but remain optimistic.
A mere half-game behind the Indiana Pacers for the sixth seed, the Sixers are hopeful that superstar center Joel Embiid‘s anticipated return will ignite a formidable playoff campaign.
