Tilman Fertitta wants James Harden to win NBA title with Rockets

“We’ve done nothing but gotten better in the offseason, and picked up more draft picks,” Fertitta said. “We’re excited about this season.”

While not directly confirming the numerous reports of James Harden’s offseason trade request, Houston Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta clearly acknowledged the All-Star guard’s desire to win an NBA title.

But in a Tuesday interview, Fertitta said he wants Harden to win his long-awaited championship with the Rockets — not another team.

Here’s what Fertitta told CNBC’s Power Lunch:

James Harden, I have all the respect in the world for. James Harden wants to win a ring during his period as a basketball player. I think that’s wonderful that he’s going to do it, and hopefully he’ll do it with the Houston Rockets.

Harden reported to the Rockets earlier Tuesday as he begins the process of COVID-19 testing, which is required by the NBA in order for the perennial MVP finalist to join his Houston teammates at training camp.

One of the reasons the Rockets have resisted trading Harden is because of their belief that the 2020-21 team, with Harden, could be better than many expect. In Tuesday’s chat with CNBC, Fertitta said he liked what the Rockets have done this offseason — with acquisitions including five-time All-Star guard John Wall, four-time All-Star center DeMarcus Cousins, and emerging young big man Christian Wood. The Rockets also brought in three future first-round draft picks in their dealings, which could potentially be used in trades for further upgrades later in the season.

“I have a great basketball ops [operations] team,” Fertitta told CNBC. “We’ve done nothing but gotten better in the offseason, and picked up more draft picks. We’re excited about this season, and I think it’s going to be a great season for the Rockets.”

Harden is under contract for at least two more seasons, which allows Fertitta and the Rockets the opportunity to be patient.

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