Three-Time Champ Signs with the Pelicans
During the 2025 offseason, veteran big man Kevon Looney is set to enter unrestricted free agency after completing his 10th NBA season, all spent with the Golden State Warriors. The 29-year-old center has long been considered one of the most dependable role players in the league, known for his toughness, elite rebounding, and unselfish style of play. After a decade with the franchise that drafted him, Looney now faces the prospect of continuing his career either with a new team or returning to the organization that helped shape him into one of the league’s most respected veterans. Today, it was just reported he signed with the New Orleans Pelicans on two-year, $16 million deal.
Looney was selected 30th overall by the Warriors in the 2015 NBA Draft. Despite battling injuries during the early stages of his career, he carved out a vital role in Golden State’s rotation and played an essential part in their championship runs in 2017, 2018, and 2022. Over the years, Looney earned a reputation as a defensive anchor and a glue guy who does the little things that don’t always appear in the box score but are critical to winning basketball. His ability to defend pick-and-rolls, switch onto guards, and crash the offensive glass has made him a coach’s favorite and a trusted presence in big moments.
In the 2024–25 season, Looney appeared in 76 games, averaging 4.5 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.6 assists over just 15.0 minutes per game. He shot 51.4% from the field, staying efficient in his limited touches while anchoring the Warriors’ second unit. Even with his minutes scaled back due to the emergence of younger frontcourt players, Looney remained a steadying influence on and off the floor.
Now entering free agency for the first time since signing his last multi-year deal in 2022, Looney becomes an attractive option for teams needing a reliable veteran big man. His championship pedigree, strong locker room presence, and willingness to embrace a role make him a valuable addition for any playoff hopeful. Now, the Pelicans will gain a professional, battle-tested center with a championship mindset and a decade of playoff experience.
