Harden: Only one team can win the championship each year, but you can be a good person anywhere.

On February 8th Beijing time, the Cavaliers beat the Kings 132-126. Harden debuted for the Cavaliers, playing 32 minutes, shooting 7 of 13, 5 of 8 from beyond the arc, and 4 of 4 from the free-throw line, totaling 23 points, 1 rebound, 8 assists, and 1 steal. He scored 15 points in the fourth quarter alone, going 4-for-4. After the game, he gave a more than seven-minute interview in the locker room, the full transcript follows—

Reporter: About a week and a half ago, Tyronn Lue said the Clippers’ trade deadline would be quite calm. From your perspective, what happened afterward?

Harden: Life is full of surprises. Honestly, nothing extraordinary happened. I think this trade is great for both sides. We were honest and transparent with each other, and I believe it was the best choice for everyone involved. The end result is positive; both sides benefit. I’m happy, and I trust they are satisfied over there. They got young talent and several draft picks; I came here to join a great group of teammates with the ultimate goal of chasing a championship.

The Clippers are one of the best teams I’ve played for, from owner Ballmer to every member of the management and coaching staff. They helped me grow into the player I am today. My teammates have always supported the team, and I’m truly grateful for this opportunity. I will never forget it or take it for granted.

Reporter: Did you get a chance to talk with Zubac? How did he react?

Harden: I talked to him yesterday, today, and the day before. He was upset because he didn’t quite understand what happened. He thought he might never be traded again—though he was once when he was younger—but as you get older, you realize it’s just business. Teams do what’s best for the team, and I’m doing what’s best for my family and myself, which is what matters most. I’m glad it ended peacefully and that we both kept the friendship.

Reporter: Speaking of business, was Cleveland your preferred destination?

Harden: Yes. They were first in the East last year, very talented, with an excellent coaching staff and great team management. I saw an opportunity to fit in and help the team progress further. So I’m happy both sides recognized where I fit best.

Reporter: I know you have strong feelings for your former team and teammates, but I also want to ask about the fans. You spent many years with the Rockets, and when you first arrived at the Clippers, many people didn’t really know you and were a bit skeptical. But later, they fully embraced you. What would you like to say to the Clippers fans?

Harden: I’m truly grateful. From the sidelines to every fan, I feel their love and support deeply. As a local from Los Angeles, having the chance to play in front of family and friends at home is an honor that not everyone gets. The past two and a half years have been a blessing for me. Of course, no one wants a good thing to end, but business considerations exist on both sides, and you understand that more as you get older. I’m glad I had this experience and that it ended respectfully.

Reporter: Why do you think you fit so well with this team’s current environment?

Harden: There’s a group of young players here who know their roles and execute well. Many have defined roles; there are athletic big men and shooters everywhere, and the coaching staff is excellent. I just need to find my role, which isn’t hard. I told my teammates: just play your game, and I’ll integrate myself. I have the ability to adapt and naturally fit into the system.

But we’ve barely practiced together; this was probably my first 5-on-5 in about a week, so my body still feels a bit rusty. Still, we won the game and solved many problems.

Reporter: How exactly are you integrating into this team step by step?

Harden: I’m still observing since I’ve only played one game. We’ll see what works and what doesn’t. Today was my first game this year with at least four or five catch-and-shoot opportunities, which is something I need to get used to.

Reporter: What excites you most about playing alongside Donovan Mitchell?

Harden: He was very unselfish tonight; you wouldn’t even realize he scored 35 points. He plays smoothly and effortlessly, doing things the right way, and that kind of demeanor lifts the whole team. I’m happy to be in this environment and to have chances to shoot off the catch. We’ll see how our chemistry develops over time.

Reporter: Many Clippers players have expressed sadness about the recent trade, especially Zubac. When you hear former teammates and people inside the team say they hate to see you go, what does that mean to you? What does it say about your legacy with the Clippers?

Harden: That’s all I can do. My job is to get on the court, be a leader, offer help, and encourage teammates and staff. We’re all human, not just players. Having the chance to connect with everyone, learn about their lives, families, and experiences—that’s what matters most.

Outsiders might just say “Harden was traded” and joke on social media, but in reality, we all have real lives and jobs. I believe I’ve done something: I left a positive impact on individuals and the entire team.

Basketball is one thing; only one team wins the championship each year, but anywhere you go, you can be a good person and influence others. You never know who’s going through a tough time or how a word or action from you might affect someone’s day or even their life. For me, that’s where the real love is.

This is business. I’ve played for 17 years and understand that well. Life goes on, and you have to keep moving forward.

Reporter: When did you first learn about the possibility of the trade? How fast did the process move? How much advance notice did you get?

Harden: About a week before, I was told it was possible. I thought, wow. Then I communicated with management about my contract situation and understood the team’s reasoning. They felt the current roster wasn’t good enough and needed to make decisions for the future. When the opportunity came, I had to choose what was best for my family. I believe both sides made the right choice.

I’m very thankful to everyone on the Clippers and wish them all the best. As for myself, I’m very excited to be here and look forward to a bright future. Thank you.