New DOJ Docs Link 76ers Owner Josh Harris And Sports Execs To Epstein

Usually, when Josh Harris makes headlines, it’s about a new stadium deal for the Washington Commanders or a trade deadline move for the Philadelphia 76ers. But this week, the sports world is buzzing about something happening far away from the court or the gridiron.

Newly released documents from the Department of Justice have placed Harris—along with several other high-profile sports executives—squarely in the middle of the ongoing scrutiny surrounding Jeffrey Epstein.

Breaking Down the DOJ Release

The latest wave of information comes from a cache of DOJ files reviewed by journalists, with detailed reporting from the Sports Business Journal. These aren’t just vague rumors; they are specific records of communication. The documents show ongoing business exchanges between Harris and Epstein, including multiple phone calls and at least one planned visit to Epstein’s Manhattan residence.

It’s important to clarify exactly what is—and isn’t—in these files. According to the reporting, there is absolutely no evidence or allegation that Harris was involved in any sexual misconduct or the criminal activities for which Epstein was infamous. Instead, the correspondence appears to be transactional in nature, focusing on business introductions and networking. The court of public opinion will be very difficult to overcome.

The Timeline Troubles

The specific email threads and exchanges cited in the documents span roughly from 2013 to 2016. For those keeping score, this period is significant. By 2013, Epstein had already pleaded guilty to solicitation charges in Florida and was a registered sex offender. Remember at the time he hadn’t yet been arrested on the federal sex-trafficking charges that led to his 2019 detention, but his reputation was already severely tarnished.

Official Responses and Damage Control

As the news broke, crisis management teams went into overdrive. A spokesperson for Josh Harris was quick to address the reports, stating unequivocally to reporters that Harris “never had an independent relationship with Jeffrey Epstein.” The statement went on to clarify that some of the meetings referenced in the documents were either canceled or handled through intermediaries, attempting to distance itself from direct personal ties.

Harris isn’t the only name floating around in these files. The documents also reference other heavy hitters, including Todd Boehly, Steve Tisch, Robert Kraft, Casey Wasserman, and many more.

What This Means for the League

For the leagues involved—primarily the NFL (Washington Commanders), NHL (New Jersey Devils), and NBA (Philadelphia 76ers)—this creates a headache regarding governance and image. Modern sports franchises are multi-billion dollar corporations, and their owners are public figures who act as stewards for massive community assets.

The release of these names highlights a murky reality of high-finance sports ownership: the reliance on ultra-high-net-worth networks. Deals are often cut in private clubs and luxury homes, relying on introductions from mutual acquaintances. However, these disclosures are likely to prompt calls for greater transparency and stricter vetting of outside relationships.

Even absent allegations of wrongdoing, the “reputational risk” is real. Sponsors and corporate partners generally dislike surprises, especially ones that link their partners to scandals of this magnitude.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do the documents accuse Josh Harris of a crime?
A: No. The reporting indicates that the emails show business communications and do not indicate any involvement in sexual misconduct or criminal activity.

Q: Will there be official investigations by the leagues?
A: That depends. Any formal investigations by the NFL, NHL, or NBA would likely depend on new evidence.

Q: Why are these documents coming out now?
A: These records are part of broader DOJ releases related to Epstein’s network. Journalists are combing through them to verify dates and participants.

The Bottom Line for Sports Leadership

The DOJ document release adds a layer of complexity to the public profiles of some of the most powerful men in sports. These files are another reminder that even in the high stakes world of sports ownership, off the field associations are super impactful towards your legacy. Also its another example why fans should never meet your heroes or enemies if your Woody Johnson who oh by the way is also mentioned in the files.

As journalists continue to parse the material, teams and leagues will likely face continued questions. For Josh Harris and his peers, the challenge now is navigating the reputational fallout and assuring fans that their judgment in the boardroom is sound.