The Golden State Warriors will be keeping one of the most solid members of their young core as forward Draymond Green announced Wednesday through a video posted by Bleacher Report that he agreed to a deal with the 2015 NBA Champions.
According to ESPN, the Defensive Player of the Year runner-up agreed to a five-year deal, and Jeff Goodman reported that the pact was worth $85 million.
No new deal can be signed until July 9, when the NBA lifts a leaguewide moratorium on roster business, but verbal agreements are allowed.
In the video posted by Bleacher Report, Green, 25, said: "Proud to say that I'll be a Warrior for at least the next five years. It's been a long journey to get to this point. Always trying to overcome the odds, overcome doubters."
"To be in this position, signing back long term with the Warriors is amazing. It's an organization that I love, it's great being a part of, best fans in the NBA, first-class organization," the Green added.
ESPN reported that Warriors general manager Bob Myers confirmed the plan to sign up Green after July 9.
Green will be earning more than 2015 NBA Most Valuable Player Stephen Curry once he signs the deal, according to ESPN Stats & Information. Curry is under a four-year deal with Golden State worth $44 million which was signed before the 2013-14 season. Green's new deal makes Curry only the sixth-highest paid player in the Warriors roster, according to ESPN.
In the video, Green also thanked everyone who supported him in his career and posted a video on Instagram of his mother's reaction when he told her of his new pact with the Warriors.
Green shined for Golden State last season, showing his versatility on both ends of the floor. He averaged 11.7 points, 8.2 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 1.3 blocks and 1.6 steals last season.
In the Warriors' championship-winning playoff campaign, he jacked up his numbers to 13.7 points, 10.1 rebounds, 5.2 assists and 1.8 steals per game.
