Charlotte Hornets rookie Mark Williams has signed a multiyear shoe and apparel endorsement contract with Jordan Brand, according to Nick DePaula of ESPN.
Williams is the second player from the rookie class to sign with the company, joining top pick Paolo Banchero of the Orlando Magic. They join a star-studded roster signed to Jordan Brand, including Dallas’ Luka Doncic, Boston’s Jayson Tatum and New Orleans’ Zion Williamson.
He was selected with the 15th pick after a strong sophomore season alongside Banchero at Duke. Williams was named the ACC Defensive Player of the Year after averaging 11.2 points, 7.4 rebounds and 2.8 blocks in 39 games. He ranked fifth in the country in total blocks (110).
Williams will have the opportunity to play as a Jordan-endorsed athlete on a team that the Hall of Famer runs as team governor. Jordan, as an alumnus of North Carolina, was famously excited to add Williams, even though he went to Duke.
Best. Phone Call. Ever. #NBADraft | @MarkWi1liams pic.twitter.com/4xd2ad2yAc
— Charlotte Hornets (@hornets) June 24, 2022
Williams has played sparingly with the Hornets to begin the season, logging six minutes over two appearances. He played some during the preseason and averaged 4.8 points and 3.4 rebounds on 50% shooting from the field in five games.
As a first-round pick, Williams was likely the target of several apparel companies and the 20-year-old opted to sign with Jordan Brand, becoming the latest player to join the iconic company.
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