NBA Rumors: Jalen Brunson Modeled $156.5M Knicks Contract After Mahomes, Brady, Jeter
July 12, 2024
New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson modeled his new four-year, $156.5 million contract extension after deals struck by championship-winning legends in other sports, per ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.
"Brunson's study of championship organizations and franchise stars -- Patrick Mahomes' Kansas City Chiefs, the Tom Brady New England Patriots and the Derek Jeter New York Yankees -- gave him a blueprint for MVP-level players who structured contracts to give their teams the best chances at sustainable title runs."
Brunson would have been eligible to sign for $113 million more in guaranteed money a year from now, per his agent Sam Rose of CAA to ESPN. Wojnarowski provided more details.
Although Brunson is giving up money now, Wojnarowski reported that he can "recoup the $113 million on a four-year, $323 million maximum extension in 2028 or a new five-year, $418 million deal in 2029."
The Knicks are in the best position they've been for a championship run in three decades after re-signing OG Anunoby, trading for Mikal Bridges and now extending Brunson, who just made his first All-NBA team.
Teammate and close friend Josh Hart loved Brunson's move.
As did numerous fans.
Now the Knicks, with Brunson leading the way, move forward in their quest to win the franchise's first title since 1973.