By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
James Harden wants to win the NBA title and he believes that moving to Brooklyn gives him a real chance to do so.
In his first meeting with the press via teleconference on Friday and Harden said he’s looking forward to starting anew alongside fellow superstars Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant.
“It means a lot. Just coming from eight years in Houston, having a fresh start with some unbelievable talent, the coaching staff,” Harden said. “Ultimately, it’s a chance for me to compete for a title.”
When asked what kind of a player the Nets were getting, Harden said he is “an elite player, an elite teammate and guy that’s willing to do whatever it takes to rack up as many wins as we can — sacrifice.”
Harden clarified once again that he felt that the Rockets were not contenders anymore.
“I felt like we didn’t have a chance,” Harden said. “The ultimate goal was to get somewhere where I can compete. It’s not a guarantee (in Brooklyn). But I think giving myself a chance is very important.”
“I wasn’t disrespectful to anyone … I’ve been through all the ups and downs in that organization. I wasn’t disrespectful to anyone. I just made a comment that the team, as a whole, wasn’t good enough to compete for a title. I have nothing but love and respect for that organization, for that city, everything that they’ve done for me and my family.”
Coach Steve Nash said Friday he expects Harden will play — and start — Saturday against the Orlando Magic.