Philadelphia 76ers co-owner Josh Harris has been pulled into renewed scrutiny after the Justice Department released a new batch of files tied to Jeffrey Epstein. Among the documents were emails involving Harris, whose name has surfaced again in connection with Epstein. Harris’ name first appeared in the Epstein files last September.

In the wake of the latest revelation from the Justice Department, Harris released a statement to clarify his appearance in the highly sensitive case.

“Josh Harris never had an independent relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. Harris sought to prevent Epstein’s attempts to develop a corporate relationship with Apollo. As these emails indicate, Harris sought to avoid meeting with Epstein, cancelling meetings and having others return his calls,” Harris said through a spokesperson.

The statement echoed his stance from 2021. While still a member of Apollo Global Management, Harris reportedly was against the hiring of Jeffrey Epstein, which fellow co-founder Leon Black was pushing. The dispute reportedly occurred in 2011, years after Epstein’s conviction.

“Harris and Rowan — repelled by Epstein and concerned about damage to Apollo’s reputation — said no, and the conversations never advanced, according to the sources. Nevertheless, tensions between the co-founders over Epstein — particularly between Black and Harris — persisted,” The New York Post story claimed.

Leon Black parted ways with Apollo Global Management. It’s believed that his surprise decision to step down stemmed from tensions between the owners. 76ers Co-owner Josh Harris also exited the firm in May 2021, when the New York Post reported the previous falling-out.

The Philadelphia 76ers just can’t catch a break

The Philadelphia 76ers franchise has dealt with a series of distractions over the past few seasons. It was mainly from within the team. Joel Embiid couldn’t manage to stay healthy, dealing with persistent knee troubles. Problems amplified last season when Paul George faced a similar fate.

However, after showing incomparable patience with their stars, things are starting to take shape. Since December, Joel Embiid has only missed eight games. His minutes restrictions seem to have been lifted, now averaging over 30 minutes for the season. Embiid has notched up seven 30-point games in January, showing a clear uptick in his output.

Top Stories

“Don’t Put Your Hand on My Face”: Draymond Green Slams ‘Caucasian’ Ref After Punishment in Warriors-Pistons

Luka Doncic Breaks Silence on Body-Shaming After Awkward Moment With Ex-Teammate

Lakers Hit With Double Trade Blow as League Sources Confirm $180M Decision

Ex-ESPN Anchor Calls Out a Hidden Caitlin Clark Problem Few Are Acknowledging

Is Victor Wembanyama Playing Tonight vs Hornets? Latest Injury Report on Spurs Star (Jan 31)

Paul George is starting to settle into a new role. He’s operating as a tenacious defender, forming a strong combination with rookie VJ Edgecombe. Tyrese Maxey has emerged as the dynamic star holding the fort together. The Sixers are now the sixth seed, appearing to be genuine threats to emerge from the East if they can manage Paul George and Joel Embiid as they have.

While Harris has consistently denied any personal or professional relationship with Epstein, the re-emergence of his name in newly released federal documents places renewed attention on his role as a high-profile NBA owner. How long that scrutiny lingers remains to be seen, but the situation has once again pushed the 76ers’ ownership into an uncomfortable national spotlight.