Three-Time Warriors Champion Departs in Free Agency, Joins Pelicans

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | Last updated Jun 30, 2025 8:28 PM ET

Free agency arrived, and it felt a bit different than it has in the NBA's past.

Deals used to be struck -- with opposing teams -- minutes after free agency began. The NBA has dialed in on teams tampering and discussing moves before the free agency period opens.

This year, moves rolled in more slowly than in years past. The Golden State Warriors are expected to be active in the offseason, with both free agent signings and trades being an option.

All eyes are on Jonathan Kuminga, as the 22-year-old forward is a restricted free agent. There's plenty of speculation from both parties involved about what an offseason move might look like.

While Kuminga is the focus, one former Warriors player is on the move.

Kevon Looney, who has been with the franchise since 2015, is set to play for a different team for the first time in his career.

The Golden State big man won three titles with the team during his time in the Bay Area. Now, Looney has landed a two-year, $16 million deal with the New Orleans Pelicans.

"Free agent center Kevon Looney has agreed to a two-year, $16 million deal with the New Orleans Pelicans," ESPN's Shams Charania reports. "Life Sports Agency CEO Todd Ramasar and the Pelicans reached a deal tonight for the three-time NBA champion who departs Golden State after 10 years."

Free agent center Kevon Looney has agreed to a two-year, $16 million deal with the New Orleans Pelicans, sources tell ESPN. Life Sports Agency CEO Todd Ramasar and the Pelicans reached a deal tonight for the three-time NBA champion who departs Golden State after 10 years. pic.twitter.com/FAvVBa4Tk6
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2025

The Warriors are looking for center upgrades and are keen to keep financial flexibility, so it made sense for the two sides to move on this offseason.

Looney gets a chance to explore a bigger role in the NBA, too, as he's seen less opportunity with the Warriors in recent years.

The Pelicans have had a tumultuous few seasons and are looking to right the ship with their current roster in place.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: