Ex-Sixers coach Doc Rivers says working with James Harden was 'challenging'

Fox News Flash top sports headlines are here. Check out what's clicking on Foxnews.com.

Doc Rivers was an NBA All-Star as a player and won an NBA championship as a coach, but his tenure with the Philadelphia 76ers came to an unceremonious end last month. 

After three seasons as the Sixers' head coach and three second-round playoff exits, the team parted ways with Rivers. The longtime coach has yet to land with another NBA organization. 

During a recent appearance on "The Bill Simmons Podcast," Rivers reflected on his time in Philly and opened up on his experience coaching star player James Harden.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

James Harden (1) and head coach Doc Rivers of the Philadelphia 76ers during a game May 14, 2023, at the TD Garden in Boston. (Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images)

The Sixers acquired Harden in a trade with the Brooklyn Nets in February 2022. 

The 2018 NBA MVP had to adjust his style of play once he arrived in Philly. When he was with the Houston Rockets, Harden was accustomed to almost always having the ball in his hands and being the primary scorer.

SIXERS' JAMES HARDEN INTENDS TO DECLINE PLAYER OPTION, SEEK LONG-TERM DEAL AS FREE AGENT: REPORT

In Philadelphia, Rivers seemed to want Harden to be more of a facilitator and the second scoring option. Harden playing in that role helped him coexist with superstar Joel Emiid.

However, it was a process getting Harden to become comfortable with his new role. Sometimes, frustrations would appear to spill over during games and in the locker room. Rivers described his time coaching Harden as "challenging." 

Philadelphia 76ers head coach Doc Rivers draws up a play for James Harden, left, in the fourth quarter. The 76ers