Zion Williamson after signing max extension: 'Want to prove I'm a winner' / News - Basketnews.com

Credit: AP-Scanpix Credit AP-Scanpix

Recently the New Orleans Pelicans' forward Zion Williamson signed his five-year designated rookie max extension that could be worth up to $231 million.

Points this season

46%109,3Points made:109,3Accuracy:45,8%Place in standings:18Record max:130Record min:85Best scorer:Brandon IngramTeamNBAStatisticsSchedule

The deal is worth $193 million over five years and could jump to $231 million if Williamson reaches the clauses in the deal, including making an All-NBA team next season.

Williamson signed the extension in front of around 80 kids participating in his summer camp at a local YMCA.

2.01-meters tall Pelicans star signed the contract, and after putting the cap on the pen, Williamson looked up and said, "I'm locked in, baby."

Pelicans forward answered questions in a press conference following the signing and revealed that not being able to play took a toll on him.

"I want to thank my family. I want to thank the YMCA. I want to thank the city of New Orleans, especially Mrs. Benson. Thank y'all for believing in me," started Williamson.

"On my birthday last year, I found out I broke my foot. I was out the whole year. It was a tough year," Williamson continued.

"For the Pelicans to come give me this birthday gift, I'm not going to let them down," said Williamson. "I'm not going to let my family down. I'm not going to let the city down. And most importantly, I'm not going to let myself down," added the Pelicans forward.

More than a month ago, Williamson was cleared for basketball activities and is now healthy and preparing for the upcoming season.

"I want to prove that I'm a winner," Pelicans star said. "It's as simple as that. I want to win with the coach. As well as with my teammates. The ultimate goal is to win the championship," added Williamson.

"Y'all saw this past year what the team did, and I'm just excited to add to that," Williamson continued.

Pelicans executive vice president of basketball operations David Griffin was happy with the signing and explained his decision.

"Zion wanted to make that same level of commitment to this organization," Griffin said. "He wasn't looking for a way out. He was looking for a way to stay."

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