Kevon Looney’s time with the Golden State Warriors has come to an end as the veteran big man signed a two-year, $16 million contract with the New Orleans Pelicans on June 30. This Kevon Looney Pelicans reunion reunites him with his former teammate Jordan Poole, signaling a potential resurgence for the pair who played key roles in the Warriors’ recent success.
Though Looney was expected to spend his entire career in Golden State, the three-time NBA champion has now embraced a new challenge in New Orleans. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see how this duo might perform together beyond their tenure with the Warriors.
Poole and Looney’s Shared History and Transition to New Teams
Jordan Poole and Kevon Looney spent four seasons together from 2019 to 2023, sharing the spotlight during the Warriors’ 2022 championship victory. However, their paths diverged after Poole’s departure following an on-court conflict involving Draymond Green.
Poole was traded to the Washington Wizards before moving to the Pelicans, despite posting a career-best average of 20.5 points last season. The Wizards, seeking to shift direction, facilitated this trade, bringing the two former Warriors teammates back together in New Orleans.
Poole’s Enthusiastic Response to Reuniting with Looney
While training ahead of the new season, Poole’s excitement about teaming up with Looney was captured by his photographer. His enthusiasm was clear:
Y’all don’t understand this is an elite duo right here!
—Jordan Poole
I’m so happy. That’s some of the best news I’ve heard yet.
—Jordan Poole
Poole had hoped to remain with the Warriors, where he was viewed as a successor to Stephen Curry. Despite this, the reunion with Looney at the Pelicans offers Poole a familiar environment away from the Bay Area.
During a phone call with Looney, Poole expressed the significance of their reunion:
It’s been a long time coming,
—Jordan Poole
It’s active. That’s what we love to see.
—Jordan Poole
Pelicans’ Expectations for Looney’s Impact and Team Development
Though Looney’s minutes gradually decreased with the Warriors, the Pelicans see him as a critical addition who can address their lack of depth in the frontcourt. The team’s recent selection of Derik Queen with the 13th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft highlights their commitment to youth development, but Queen remains a work in progress.
Looney’s championship experience is expected to serve as a crucial mentorship role for Queen, and head coach Willie Green is prepared to challenge Looney against tougher interior opponents to maximize his value.
Balancing Youth and Experience in Pelicans’ Roster Dynamics
As New Orleans integrates both promising young players and seasoned veterans like Looney and Poole, managing rotations will be a vital task for the coaching staff. The renewed chemistry between Poole and Looney is anticipated to inject energy into the team and potentially boost overall performance.
This Kevon Looney Pelicans reunion could become a defining factor for the franchise’s success in the upcoming NBA season, as the pair combine experience and talent in pursuit of new achievements.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What condition does Kevon Looney have?
A. Looney was able to handle his neuropathy pain and participated in all 82 regular-season games. He started 80 games, setting a personal record. Additionally, he achieved career-high averages by playing 21.1 minutes and grabbing 7.3 rebounds each game.
Q. Why does Kevon Looney wear a mask?
A. Kevon Looney broke his nose, as stated in the Warriors’ newest injury update. Despite this, he will play tomorrow against the Suns with a face mask.
Q. What disease does Kevon Looney have?
A. He had an operation to fix a labrum tear in his hip. He also deals with neuropathy, which impacts his arms and legs.