Even though he’s yet to take a step on the NBA hardwood, 76ers faithful are praying that Nerlens Noel wants to be in Philadelphia for his entire career. After flashing brilliance at Summer League, it would mean heartbreak to even imagine Noel leaving the 76ers for another team. While his free agency is still many moons away, Noel is solidifying his stance to remain a 76er for as long as possible.

I had the opportunity to speak with Nerlens Noel at Rucker Park last monday as a part of Complex Sports and I asked Nerlens Noel a various amount of questions, but my final question was this: Do you want to be the player that stays in one place his whole career?

His response should delight Philadelphia:

Oh, definitely. I want to be in Philly for the rest of my career. It’s a great city, so passionate. That’s all I wanted in an NBA team. I’m here, so I really want to make the best of it and bring the most to that city.

Of course, he could have been just saying the right thing. I didn’t expect the guy to say something different and expected his answer to go along those lines, especially since he’s still a rookie. However, with all the All-Star departues and failed superstar attempts — hi Andrew Bynum — it’s comforting to know that Noel is embracing the city of Philadelphia as his own.

Check out my full interview with Noel here.