Montrezl Harrell Joins the CBA! Farewell, NBA—The Former Clippers' Powerhouse Finds a New Home

Montrezl Harrell, the former NBA Sixth Man of the Year and once a dominant force in the Los Angeles Clippers' frontcourt, has officially reached an agreement with Zhejiang in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA). At 31 years old, Harrell is set to become the team's third foreign import, marking a new chapter in his career after stints in the NBA and Australia’s NBL.

A Look Back at Harrell’s NBA Career

Harrell's journey in the NBA was nothing short of electrifying. After being drafted 32nd overall by the Houston Rockets in 2015, he quickly made a name for himself as an explosive big man with relentless energy. However, it was during his time with the Clippers that he truly shined.

In the 2019-2020 season, Harrell averaged 18.6 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game, earning him the NBA Sixth Man of the Year award. His ability to dominate the paint, attack the rim with ferocity, and bring a spark off the bench made him one of the league's most feared interior players.

Despite his success, Harrell's career took a downward turn in subsequent seasons. He bounced around the league, playing for the Lakers, Wizards, Hornets, and 76ers, but his role gradually diminished. By the 2022-23 season, he was averaging just 5.6 points and 2.8 rebounds in limited minutes with Philadelphia.

A Detour in the NBL

With NBA opportunities drying up, Harrell turned to the Australian NBL, signing with the Adelaide 36ers in September 2023. His stint in Australia proved he still had plenty left in the tank. In just under a season, he averaged an impressive 20.6 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 1 block per game.

However, his time in the NBL wasn’t without controversy. Harrell’s fiery personality led to multiple on-court altercations, including an infamous incident where he clashed with both an opposing player and a courtside fan, resulting in a three-game suspension and a $3,685 fine. While his passion for the game is undeniable, his tendency to let emotions take over has often been a double-edged sword.

Harrell’s Role in Zhejiang’s Championship Aspirations

Zhejiang is already one of the stronger teams in the CBA this season, boasting a 23-12 record and currently sitting at seventh in the league standings. Despite their success, the team lacks a true offensive centerpiece—no player on their roster is averaging over 20 points per game.

That’s where Harrell comes in. Given his track record in the NBA and NBL, he has the potential to be a game-changer in the CBA. Players with his level of skill and athleticism often dominate in the Chinese league, and Zhejiang will be counting on him to be their go-to scorer in crucial moments.

The addition of Harrell also sets up an exciting rivalry with Shanghai’s Kenneth Lofton Jr., who is widely regarded as the CBA’s top foreign player. Lofton is currently averaging 24.1 points, 13.2 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game, making him a force to be reckoned with. The inevitable clash between these two powerhouse big men will be a must-watch for CBA fans.

What This Means for Harrell’s Future

For Harrell, this move is about more than just basketball—it’s about redefining his career and securing his financial future. Unlike some former NBA players who struggle to find lucrative opportunities after leaving the league, Harrell has positioned himself well.

The CBA is known for paying top dollar for former NBA talent, and given Harrell’s recent performances, he stands to make a substantial paycheck. The reality is that his NBA days are likely over, but in China, he has the opportunity to extend his career for several more years while playing a starring role.

His journey mirrors that of many former NBA players who found a second life in the CBA. Players like Stephon Marbury, Michael Beasley, and Jimmer Fredette all thrived in China after their NBA careers fizzled out, and Harrell has the potential to follow in their footsteps.

A Fiery Player in a League That Embraces Passion

One of the biggest questions surrounding Harrell’s CBA stint is whether he can control his emotions. His history of on-court altercations suggests that he will need to keep his temper in check to succeed in China.

However, the CBA is a league that embraces physicality and passion, and if channeled correctly, Harrell’s intensity could make him a fan favorite. Zhejiang fans will appreciate his relentless hustle, rim-rattling dunks, and blue-collar work ethic.

The NBA’s Loss, the CBA’s Gain

While it’s always bittersweet to see a former NBA star transition to another league, Harrell’s move to the CBA feels like the perfect next step. He may no longer be the explosive Sixth Man of the Year candidate he once was, but he still has the skills, strength, and determination to dominate at a high level.

For NBA fans, it’s the end of an era. For CBA fans, it’s the beginning of something special. Harrell’s journey has been filled with highs and lows, but one thing is certain—he’s not done making noise in the basketball world.