Photo: Philadelphia 76ers/Twitter

As it was expected, James Harden officially signed a new two-year deal with the 76ers after declining his player option for the 2022-2023 season.

The 32-year-old former NBA MVP will earn $68 million over the two years in Philadelphia, according to Spotrac. His second year is a player option. Before signing the deal the superstar said that he is willing to take a pay cut in order for the team to have more cap space to improve the roster.

Speaking after officially signing the new contract, Harden expressed his desire to play for the Sixers and win. He spoke how he was welcomed by the organization.

“This is where I want to be. This is where I want to win, and I think we have the pieces to accomplish that goal,” Harden said, via NBA.com.

“From my first day with the 76ers organization, the team and the fans have helped me feel at home here in Philadelphia. I’m excited to build off of last season and I can’t wait to get out on the court with the guys and start this journey.” 

This past season, which he split between the Nets and the 76ers, Harden averaged 22 points, 7.7 rebounds and 10.3 assists per game.