PHILADELPHIA — When Josh Harris first addressed fans after acquiring the Philadelphia 76ers, he expressed a sincere desire to restore the franchise to its former glory. Harris, along with notable figures such as Fanatics’ Michael Rubin and entertainer Will Smith, assured supporters a commitment to reviving the team’s competitive spirit.
“Make no mistake, our objective is to establish a premier franchise,” Harris stated, “with aspirations to secure NBA championships.”
Fast forward over 13 years, and Harris finds himself in a situation where he could clinch a significant championship for Philadelphia—albeit with a twist: he is now also the owner of the Washington Commanders. This means that Harris could achieve glory in Philadelphia with an NFL team that is geographically closer to Washington D.C.
The Commanders will face off against the Philadelphia Eagles in an unexpected NFC Championship game this Sunday, despite Harris’s 76ers struggling in the NBA season. Victory for the Commanders might even earn Harris a statue in the nation’s capital, just as he hopes to see the George Halas Trophy awarded to the NFC champion in Philadelphia— a place where his Sixers have yet to reach the third playoff round since his ownership began.
Harris is uniquely positioned between the sports allegiances of two cities, with only 130 miles between them. As a co-founder of private equity firm Apollo Global Management, Harris has made a name for himself in Philadelphia. Under his ownership group, the 76ers upgraded their practice facilities and invested significantly in player contracts, such as Joel Embiid’s recent $192 million extension. The franchise has also made high-profile acquisitions that have kept the team competitive in the league.
After contentious negotiations with the city, the 76ers decided to abandon earlier plans for a downtown move, opting instead to partner with Comcast Spectacor to construct a new arena in South Philadelphia.
Currently, Harris faces criticism from Philadelphia fans not only due to the lack of championship success through the rebuild known as “The Process” but also because of his perceived divided loyalties. Fans feel Harris has spread himself thin by investing in multiple sports franchises, including the New Jersey Devils and Crystal Palace.
Harris’ recent acquisition of the Commanders for a record $6.05 billion was celebrated, even as he referenced his roots from Chevy Chase, Maryland. The Commanders experienced a remarkable turnaround this season, boasting a record of 12-5 and a chance to make an impact in the playoffs under the leadership of rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. Meanwhile, the 76ers found themselves facing dwindling hopes due to injuries and a poor mid-season standing.
Despite Harris’s impressive net worth of $11.3 billion, as reported by Forbes, he remains actively involved in his asset management firm, 26North, while also closely monitoring the Commanders’ performance and strategies. Following each game, coach Dan Quinn and his staff hold discussions with Harris, allowing the owner to delve into key decisions made during the games.
Harris has largely stayed out of the media eye, focusing more on behind-the-scenes dealings rather than making flashy public appearances. Unlike some other team owners who are considered part of the local fan community, Harris maintains a presence at basketball games with his family and significant businessmen but often avoids the spotlight.
Following the offseason signing of George to a significant contract, Harris claimed the 76ers had one of the strongest teams he had ever managed. However, the injuries and struggles this season have overshadowed that hope.
Yet, as Harris gears up for a major showdown between his Commanders and the Eagles, he reflects on the challenges he has faced throughout his tenure in Philadelphia and wonders whether he still has that football spirit ready for what lies ahead.
