Sawt Falasteen - Philadelphia 76ers extends GM Morey's contract through 2027-28 season

The 51-year-old American served as general manager of the Houston Rockets from 2007 to 2020, posting a 2019 social media message in support of Hong Kong protests that led to a major split in NBA-China relations.

The day after leaving the Rockets in 2020, Morey was hired by the 76ers and since then the Sixers have won 65.3% of their games.

At 810-489, Morey's career 62.4% win percentage ranks fourth in NBA history for executives with more than 1,000 games.

NBA teams directed by Morey have never suffered a losing campaign.

"Daryl is one of the best front office executives in sports and I greatly value his leadership," 76ers managing partner Josh Harris said.

"I'm thrilled to have reached an agreement to extend his contract and look forward to working together to maximize our chances of competing for an NBA title."

Morey had been criticized by 76ers star guard James Harden in the off-season after a trade deal failed to materialize but last month the Sixers sent Harden to the Los Angeles Clippers in a blockbuster three-team, seven-player exchange.

Sparked by reigning NBA Most Valuable Player Joel Embiid and guard Tyrese Maxey, the 76ers are 16-7, two games behind NBA overall leader Boston in the Eastern Conference and sharing the fourth-best record in the league.

"I want to express my appreciation to Josh Harris and (co-owner) David Blitzer for their unwavering support and confidence. Together, we are committed to bringing a championship to Philadelphia," Morey said.

"I love this franchise and the relationship my family and I have built with our fans and this city. There's no place I'd rather continue this journey than here."

The Sixers fired head coach Doc Rivers last May after they were ousted by Boston in the second round. Morey hired former Toronto coach Nick Nurse in June to guide the squad.

P.Tamimi--SF-PST