Is there any truth to the James Harden Saudi Arabia rumors? Exploring the authenticity of the viral claim

With James Harden's public outrage against Philadelphia 76ers GM Daryl Morey dominating NBA circles, rumors about him potentially playing in Saudi Arabia have emerged. The oil-rich country's soccer league has made waves recently due to the outrageous salaries offered to European soccer stars.

In the same vein, some viral rumors have left fans wondering if Harden is actually planning to play in the Asian country. The answer is no. James Harden will not play in Saudi Arabia, at least not in the near future.

The viral claim was made by a Twitter parody account "B**tCrack Sports". The page has posted several fake rumors and memes like this in the past, mostly to keep fans talking. Many other parody accounts have also spread false rumors linking James Harden with a move to Saudi Arabia.

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James Harden's Saudi rumors don't hold any water as he is still under contract with the Philadelphia 76ers

Saudi Arabia's potential as a top soccer league is being unlocked with the big-name arrivals of Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Neymar Jr among others. However, their basketball league is yet to reach a place where they can lure top hoopers from around the globe, let alone the NBA.

James Harden is still under contract with the Philadelphia 76ers. He opted into his $35.6 million player option this summer instead of becoming a free agent. Until the 76ers buy out his contract and waive him, Harden will be ineligible to play in Saudi Arabia or any other country abroad.

Harden also seems motivated to continue his pursuit of an NBA championship. He wants a trade to another contender. Harden, 33, still has several years left as one of the best guards in the NBA.

Harden is past his prime, but his production remains elite among point guards around the league. Harden has averaged at least 20 points and 10 assists a game in his last three seasons. Playing in Saudi Arabia would be a big step down for him.

Harden did, however, admit he would want to play in China at some point during his recent visit to the country.

Here's what he said:

"Every time I come here, the love is just like ... it's crazy, you know what I mean? So I feel like they deserve to actually see me come play here. ... Love is always crazy here."

James Harden's comments on playing in China only debunk the false reports that he would take his talents to Saudi Arabia next.