
The Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday announced they officially re-signed James Harden to a three-year, $97 million contract extension, ending what had been a complicated matter in free agency.
Harden will enter his first full season with the Cavaliers after being acquired in a midseason trade with the Los Angeles Clippers in February in exchange for Darius Garland and a second-round pick. Harden will be playing in his 18th season.
Cleveland was proud to announce the return of the former MVP on X. The 37-year-old Harden reposted it with a fingers-crossed emoji.
— James Harden (@JHarden13) September 9, 2026
In 26 games with the Wine and Gold last season, the lefty guard averaged 20.5 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 7.7 assists in 33.8 minutes. He allayed concerns that he would not be a good fit alongside Donovan Mitchell since both are high-usage players.
Fans were excited for Harden’s second year in The Land.
“This finna be our year in 2027,” said @MarquisWaites25.
“Well-deserved @JHarden13, The Land expects a lot from this team and you are a huge part of our recent success and bright future,” added @LuisFra71636405.
“Let’s get this ring, demon,” wrote @Beard_ring_.
“Happy to have you here, bro,” stated @BeardDaDon.
“Let’s go. Uno. Time to finally shut down all the noise,” commented @RoadWarriorWon.
Harden will try to redeem himself after his weak performance against the New York Knicks in the conference finals, where the Cavaliers got swept.
The 11-time All-Star is still looking for his first championship.
Harden declined his $42.3 million player option in June to give Cleveland more financial flexibility in its pursuit of LeBron James.
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