Former Philadelphia 76ers big man Montrezl Harrell has found a new opportunity to continue his basketball career, this time overseas. The veteran forward-center, who has spent eight seasons in the NBA, is reportedly signing a deal with the Adelaide 36ers in Australia’s National Basketball League (NBL). After a challenging stint with the 76ers, which included injuries, Harrell is now looking to make a fresh start on the international stage.
Harrell’s decision to head to Australia comes after an injury-riddled 2023-24 NBA season. The 29-year-old, who had re-signed with the 76ers in the 2023 offseason, suffered a significant setback when he tore his ACL, ruling him out for the entire season. Now, as he eyes a return to competitive basketball, the Adelaide 36ers provide the ideal platform for him to regain his form and make an impact.
Harrell joined the 76ers in the 2022 offseason, providing depth behind All-Star center Joel Embiid. In his lone season with Philadelphia, Harrell played 57 games, including seven starts, and averaged 5.6 points and 2.8 rebounds per game. Although his role was limited, he brought energy off the bench and was a reliable option in the paint. However, his time in Philadelphia was cut short by his devastating injury, preventing him from contributing further to the team.
Harrell’s NBA career has seen its fair share of highs. Across eight seasons, he averaged 12.1 points and 5.0 rebounds per game, making a name for himself as a powerful and energetic forward who excelled off the bench. His standout year came during the 2019-20 season with the Los Angeles Clippers, where his efforts earned him the NBA’s prestigious 6th Man of the Year award. That season, Harrell was a crucial part of the Clippers’ rotation, averaging 18.6 points and 7.1 rebounds per game.
His physicality, combined with his ability to finish around the rim, made him a valuable player for several teams, including the Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Lakers, Washington Wizards, and Charlotte Hornets. Despite his success, Harrell struggled to find a consistent long-term fit in recent years, as injuries and fluctuating roles impacted his performances.
By joining the Adelaide 36ers, Harrell enters one of the most competitive leagues outside the NBA. The NBL has grown in stature in recent years, attracting several former NBA players and becoming a proving ground for young talent. For Harrell, this move presents an opportunity to revitalize his career and prove that he can still contribute at a high level.
The Adelaide 36ers are one of the NBL’s most prominent teams, and Harrell’s arrival will significantly bolster their frontcourt. His experience in the NBA and his physical playing style will likely make him a key figure for the team. The move could also serve as a springboard for Harrell, who may use the experience to return to the NBA or explore other international opportunities in the future.
