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James Harden unexpectedly showed up to Philadelphia 76ers practice on Wednesday ahead of the team’s season-opener against the Milwaukee Bucks on Thursday night.
It was the latest headline in a turbulent, drama-filled offseason which included a trade request from the star guard.
And, unfortunately for Harden, he was not met by the 76ers with open arms.
According to a report from NBA insider Chris Haynes of Bleacher Report, 76ers security stopped Harden from boarding the team flight to Milwaukee and was informed that he was not permitted to be with the team.
From the report:
After practice, Harden arrived at the fixed-base operator airport to board the team flight, but he was stopped by a security official who notified him that he was not permitted to accompany the team, sources say.
General manager Elton Brand and head coach Nick Nurse spoke to Harden to explain that the organization prefers he accepts and follows their workout plan, which includes staying at the practice facility while the team is away, sources say.
Harden left the airport without any further incident.
At this point, it is safe to say that the relationship between the 76ers and Harden is beyond repair.
What the two sides decide to do, however, remains to be seen.
In the meantime, Joel Embiid and the rest of the 76ers will officially begin their 2023-24 regular season campaign on Thursday night at the Fiserv Forum against Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks. Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m. ET on TNT.
