No. 1 pick Paolo Banchero reacts to signing with Jordan Brand
Orlando Magic rookie Paolo Banchero on Tuesday called it a special opportunity to sign a multiyear endorsement contract with Jordan Brand ahead of the start of the regular season.
The apparel company officially announced the pact with Banchero on Monday after it was reported in late July that the two sides were nearing an agreement. He is the first known rookie this year to sign with an apparel company.
The No. 1 pick joins a star-studded roster of players signed to Jordan Brand, including Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Doncic, Boston Celtics guard Jayson Tatum and New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson among others.
It means a lot to sign with Jordan. It has probably been my favorite brand my whole life wearing the shoes, wearing the clothes and looking up to Michael Jordan. For them to reach out and want me to be a part of their brand was a special opportunity for me.
Banchero was an All-American last season at Duke after averaging 17.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 1.1 steals. He is the fifth Blue Devils player to become the No. 1 pick in the NBA and the first since Williamson in 2019.
The 19-year-old had a strong run with the Magic in a limited sample size during summer league and continued that into the preseason, averaging 14 points, 5.2 rebounds and 1.8 assists in five games. He finished fourth among all rookies in total scoring.
Banchero was viewed as the top target by apparel companies after playing last season at Duke and becoming the first pick. He met with each brand and opted to join Jordan Brand, becoming the latest up-and-coming player to sign.
The Magic begin the season on Wednesday against the Detroit Pistons.
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List
The complete Magic roster for the 2022-23 season
