Kevon Looney has signed with the New Orleans Pelicans for real! This transfer completes his ten-year journey with the Golden State Warriors. The Warriors pulled the 29-year-old center, No. 30 overall pick in 2015 out of UCLA. Since then, he’s been a difference-maker for the Crimson Tide.
No wonder that, during his time with the Warriors, Looney built a reputation as one of the league’s most effective role players. He ranked in the top 10 for offensive rebounding percentage among players who participated in 40 or more games last season. His talent for creating second-chance opportunities was key for the Warriors, particularly during the most crucial times of games.
Looney’s strength was in off-ball screen actions, where he ranked in the top five for setting off-ball screens per 100 possessions. This ability was key in opening up space and driving opportunity for his teammates, the mega stars like Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. His all-around unselfish play, coupled along with his high basketball IQ, helped him become a valuable asset to a systematic Warriors team.
During Looney’s extended run in the lineup last season, he was mostly a bench player. He appeared in 76 games and averaged 4.5 points, 6.1 boards and 1.6 dimes per game. It wasn’t just what he was contributing stat wise either, his impact can be seen in what he brought to team chemistry and on the court dynamic.
With the last year of a three-year, $22.5 million contract behind him, Looney was an unrestricted free agent. His decision to join the Pelicans reflects a new chapter in his career as he seeks to contribute to a different franchise.
Looney’s departure leaves a notable gap in the Warriors’ lineup. He was one of the longest-tenured active players with the franchise. Golden State is definitely going to miss his wealth of experience, versatility and depth. Yet, at least over the last decade, he has played an integral role in their success.
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