Fans of the New Orleans Pelicans finally got the news they have been waiting for. Zion Williamson will sign a 5 year/$193 million dollar extension to stay with the Pels and could earn up to $231 million.
During the beginning of the offseason, Williamson eluded to re-signing with the Pelicans and said he couldn’t get it done fast enough.
The day is finally here, which should hopefully end all of the speculation about Zion not wanting to be in New Orleans:
New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson has agreed on a five-year, $193 million designated maximum rookie extension that could earn him as much as $231 million, CAA Sports’ Co-Head of Basketball Austin Brown tells ESPN. pic.twitter.com/z4lnVLD1GM
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 2, 2022
In the new contract it adds that if Zion is able to make All-NBA, win MVP, or win Defensive Player of the Year it will increase the money Zion will earn. This is a good contract that will incentivize Zion to perform at the highest level he can.
Since being drafted in 2019, Zion has played 85 games for the Pelicans averaging 25 PPG off of 60% shooting, the only player in NBA history with that kind of efficiency.
Williamson made the All-Star team in 2020-2021 with a career high 27 points per game. He has been putting in the work on and off the court this offseason, practicing with his teammates while also running a basketball camp and promoting his newest signature shoe.
On top of his strong performance on the court. Off the court Zion is a man of the people. He has taken New Orleans under his wing. The city loves him, and he loves them back. He has been giving back to youth basketball camps, Boys and Girls Club, and more. His impact to the community of New Orleans has already made him a fan favorite even though he missed all of last season.
The New Orleans Pelicans are taking a risk by giving Zion Williamson a max extension, but he is showing them that he is worth the investment.