Montrezl Harrell is back, and he’s not holding anything back. The 2020 NBA Sixth Man of the Year shared his unfiltered journey in an exclusive interview with Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson, detailing his career highs, lows, and his bold next steps.
Harrell’s recent signing with the Adelaide 36ers for the 2025-26 NBL season marks a triumphant return. After averaging 20.5 points and 9.3 rebounds last season, he earned All-NBL Second Team honors, helping the 36ers secure a play-in tournament spot.
Now, Harrell’s gearing up for the BIG3 season, kicking off this weekend in Chicago. “I’m really excited, man! It’s a league that’s constantly growing,” Harrell told Robinson, eager to showcase his relentless energy in the 3-on-3 format.
Reflecting on his overseas stints, Harrell found peace in Australia’s NBL. “It’s a place where I was able to fall back in love with basketball,” he said, praising the fans who embraced his passionate playstyle.
His time in Puerto Rico was equally impactful. Harrell described the month-long stint as “dope,” helping a playoff-bound team while soaking in the vibrant basketball culture.
Harrell’s NBA journey, however, wasn’t as kind. His 2022-23 stint with the Philadelphia 76ers left scars. “I hated it,” he admitted, citing false promises of 15-18 minutes per game that turned into DNPs and a fractured trust with coach Doc Rivers.
The 2020 NBA Bubble was another low point. Harrell drove 14 hours alone from North Carolina to Florida to rejoin the Clippers after his grandmother’s passing, only to face quarantine despite daily negative COVID tests. “They didn’t even fly me back,” he said.
Despite these setbacks, Harrell’s hunger for the NBA persists at 31. “I know I’m nowhere near done,” he declared, emphasizing his recovery from a 2023 knee injury that sidelined him for a season.
Harrell’s candor also addressed stereotypes. “They’re scared of me because of the dreads, tattoos, piercings,” he said, but stressed his professionalism and bonds with team staff.
His 2020 move to the Lakers was a bold jab at the Clippers. “I just wanted to give y’all hell right across the street,” he said, recalling his 16-18 points per game before LeBron James’ injury derailed their season.
