Why did Caleb Martin turn down Heat’s offer and take less money to join 76ers? Martin explains from

Caleb Martin Explains Why He Chose 76ers Over Heat Despite Lower Salary

Former Heat swingman Caleb Martin has revealed his reasons for joining the Philadelphia 76ers this offseason, despite a more lucrative offer from his former team.

Martin, who averaged 9.2 points and 3.8 rebounds per game for the Heat last season, signed a three-year, $26 million deal with the 76ers in July, turning down a three-year, $30 million offer from Miami.

In an interview with The Philadelphia Inquirer, Martin said that he was ultimately drawn to the 76ers' "winning culture" and the opportunity to play alongside All-Stars Joel Embiid and James Harden.

"I think the biggest thing for me was just the winning culture that they have here," Martin said. "Obviously, they've been to the playoffs the last few years, they've got a great coach in Doc Rivers, and they've got two All-Stars in Joel Embiid and James Harden. So, I think just being able to come here and be a part of that winning culture was really appealing to me."

Martin also praised the 76ers' "family atmosphere" and said that he was impressed by the team's front office and coaching staff.

"I think the family atmosphere here is really special," Martin said. "Everybody gets along, everybody's close, and everybody's just trying to win. I think that's really important for a team to have, and I think it's something that's really going to help us succeed this year."

Martin's decision to join the 76ers was a surprise to many, given that the Heat had offered him more money and the chance to play for a team that had reached the Eastern Conference Finals in each of the past two seasons.

However, Martin said that he was ultimately more interested in joining a team that was "ready to win now" and that he believed the 76ers were a better fit for him both on and off the court.

"I think the Heat are a great team, and I think they're going to be a contender again this year," Martin said. "But for me, I just felt like the 76ers were a better fit for me at this stage of my career. I'm ready to win now, and I think the 76ers are the team that can help me do that."