James Harden writes open letter to Rockets fans

James Harden speaks during a press conference at the Houston Rockets, Saturday, July 9, 2016, in Houston, after he agreed to a four-year, $118 million renegotiation that could keep him under contract through 2020, after the Rockets introduced free-agent signees Ryan Anderson and Eric Gordon. less James Harden speaks during a press conference at the Houston Rockets, Saturday, July 9, 2016, in Houston, after he agreed to a four-year, $118 million renegotiation that could keep him under contract through ... more Photo: Karen Warren, Houston Chronicle Photo: Karen Warren, Houston Chronicle Image 1 of / 17 Caption Close James Harden writes open letter to Rockets fans 1 / 17 Back to Gallery

When the Rockets and James Harden agreed to a four-year contract extension on Saturday, Harden immediately spoke and sounded like more of a leader.

At Saturday's press conference, he talked about getting together with his teammates for summer workouts and working to have a much better year than last season's disappointing 41-41 finish.

On Monday, Harden, whose extension is for $118 million and runs through the 2019-20 season, took another step as a leader, sending an open letter to Rockets fans.

In the letter, Harden talks about growing as a player and as a man, and the work he's willing to put in to make the Rockets a championship contender.

An open letter to Red Nation from @JHarden13: pic.twitter.com/sZwDyoN5KV — Houston Rockets (@HoustonRockets) July 11, 2016

The entire text of the letter is below:

Dear Red Nation:

Saturday was a big day for all of us who love the Rockets.

I feel so honored to be able to extend my basketball career in this great City which I now call home. I can't thank Mr. Alexander enough for the faith in me and the incredible support my family and I feel from the organization and our fans.

From the first day I arrived you embraced me as your own. Your support has helped me grow so much as a player and as a man - from the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU!

I can assure you our Team will work hard together, grow together, build together, compete together, and pursue our ultimate goal - another Championship for H-Town - together!

There will be challenges along the way but we will continue to fight. Everyone in the organization is locked in on the same goal.

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We are not a "super-team," but just a group of guys that want to work hard to be the very best. And our work begins immediately.

We look forward to taking this incredible journey with all of you!

With much love and great respect,

James Harden