Pelicans: A legal analysis of Zion Williamson’s lawsuit against Prime Sports

Trusting the Process

Proceeding straight to federal court would mean going through the discovery process. Both sides would have to share everything within the permissible scope with one another. Court filings are public; mediation is kept private.

In addition, both parties would sign a confidentiality agreement at the outset that says they cannot share or use anything discussed in mediation. Williamson will have to be physically present at the mediation, since the rules generally require it and his interactions with Prime Sports are key to the issues.

This lawsuit may bring rise to several issues. It will not likely delay Zion Williamson’s NBA debut, nor cost him games during his rookie season. It does have the possibility of pushing back any sneaker deals. And that’s the true jackpot, not Zion’s rookie contract.

There is a scenario where one side decides that mediation is not satisfactory. The nuclear option legal battle would get messy for all parties. NBA and NCAA rules concerning draft eligibility may be examined by a federal judge in this case. Zion Williamson could then miss games.

Both side have high dollar legal counsel for a reason. This will be litigated intensely; “to the death,” it was said by this legal analyst source. Zion is the most transcendent, most talked about talent to enter the league since LeBron James, so of course this will be a battle.

Looking at Sports Illustrated’s article and the quote for a shoe deal was interesting. Zion Williamson could really get a $40 million per year shoe company deal if all of the figures being thrown around are legit. Master P might have been pricing the deal too low. 

The other endorsements Zion Williamson will be offered will also substantial. 15% percent is worth fighting over. His five year exclusive rights deal could amount to “$250 million dollars. And that’s a conservative estimate,” per this legal analyst.

Lawsuits aren’t a distraction that any rookie in the NBA needs. Here’s to hoping Zion Williamson and his team get this all sorted out before his stint with the New Orleans Pelicans officially begins.