James Harden has been making headlines in America during his Adidas tour in China. After it seemed like the Philadelphia 76ers had shelved Harden’s trade request, the 2018 MVP pulled a bold move, calling Sixers’ President Daryl Morey a ‘liar’. The Sixers star also made it clear that he will not be playing for Philly as long as Morey is in office at the franchise. Harden’s remarks have been deemed as calculated moves by many, considering the fact that badmouthing Morey has skyrocketed his popularity in China. As a matter of fact, Harden has also managed to capitalize on his growing appeal in China, selling 10,000 bottles of his signature wine in just a matter of seconds.
Advertisement
James Harden: “Daryl Morey is a liar and I will never be a part of an organization that he’s a part of. Let me say that again: Daryl Morey is a liar and I will never be a part of an organization that he’s a part of.” pic.twitter.com/AmHJ0WwbF2
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) August 14, 2023
Earlier this summer, Harden opted in his $35.6 player option for the 2023-24 season. However, he requested a trade out of Philadelphia and trusted the front office to facilitate his smooth departure. But the Philly side ended up suspending trade talks regarding the 33-year-old, citing the dearth of suitable deals. This prompted Harden to come after Morey.
James Harden goes crazy after selling $179,900 worth of wine in 10 seconds
Daryl Morey gained notoriety in China after supporting the 2019 pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong against the control of Mainland China. This estranged the then Houston Rockets general manager from a large swath of Chinese fans. Therefore, Harden’s acerbic comments against Morey made him an instant hero in Asia’s largest country.
The 33-year-old also received his reward right off the bat. Joining forces with a popular Chinese streamer, Harden sold 10,000 bottles of his signature wine in just 10 seconds. Priced at $17.99 each bottle, the remarkable sale is set to fetch Harden $179,900.
The whole fiasco unfolded as Harden was live streaming with a popular Chinese streamer. After the 10-time All-Star realized that his product has been sold out, he completely lost it. Mouthing the words ‘I love you’ to his loyal fans, he held out a heart sign with his hands. However, things soon went on a different direction.
James Harden update
(h/t @TavioThrowerNBA)
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) August 15, 2023
Harden started making funny faces on stream and then proceeded to do a cartwheel in front of everybody to express his gratitude. Chinese fans seemed very impressed by his antics. They seem to be enjoying their favorite star’s company and are not ready to part ways with him just yet.
Harden’s business is booming
The China tour has been very lucrative for James Harden. Apart from his wine company ‘J-Harden Wines'(which he launched last year) making a fortune, Harden has also leveraged his position well to influence the best decision for him.
Teams like the Houston Rockets and Los Angeles Clippers in the NBA had shown interest in Harden. However, their offers have reportedly failed to impress the Sixers, who might have planned to drag Harden through training camp.
