In recent weeks, NBA rumors have been circulating about James Harden potentially returning to the Houston Rockets for the upcoming season. Harden had his most successful years with the franchise, winning his only MVP award and three consecutive scoring titles. The Rockets made him their franchise cornerstone after the OKC Thunder passed on offering him a maximum contract, and the move paid off as Harden turned them into perennial playoff contenders. However, the recent news of Harden will leave the fans scratching their heads in confusion. 

The partnership between James Harden and the Rockets ended on a sour note after the Rockets failed to build a legitimate contending roster around him. It led him to force a trade to the Brooklyn Nets in a blockbuster deal, later Harden was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers. Despite this, there are indications that Harden’s love for the city of Houston has remained intact, and his continued involvement in the area could contribute to a potential return.

James Harden is surely confusing fans with his $31-billion deal

In recent news, Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin has announced that he is selling his 10% stake in the parent company that owns the Philadelphia 76ers and New Jersey Devils. Rubin cited a conflict of interest with Fanatics’ collectibles and planned sports betting operations as the reason for his decision. 

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In a stunning development, reports are now surfacing that James Harden is a co-owner of Fanatics. According to a tweet shared by Bryan Toporek, Bleacher’s news reporter, the stake of Harden is yet to be revealed.  It remains unclear what percentage of the company he owns or how long he has been a shareholder, but this news has led to speculation about his future plans. Some are now wondering if his potential return to the Rockets could be tied to his involvement with Fanatics, though no concrete evidence has emerged to support this theory.

Is Harden going to sign with the 76ers?

Adding to the confusion, rumors are also circulating that Harden has agreed to re-sign with the Sixers on a four-year minimum deal. This news is baffling to many Sixers fans, given Rubin’s recent decision to sell his ownership stake in the team. It’s unclear how Harden’s reported co-ownership of Fanatics would impact his decision to sign with the Sixers, but it’s worth noting that he has strong ties to the Houston area, where he built multiple businesses and houses.

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At this point, it’s all speculation as to what Harden’s ultimate decision will be. He could choose to return to the Rockets, sign with the Sixers, or pursue other opportunities in the NBA. It’s also unclear how his involvement with Fanatics will factor into his decision-making process.