NBA teams can officially sign free agents Wednesday. The Brooklyn Nets wasted no time announcing their most important signing, Deron Williams. The three-time NBA All-Star, 28, has inked a deal reported to be worth $98 million over five years, and will be the centerpiece of the franchise as it moves from New Jersey to the new Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
"We are obviously thrilled that Deron will lead the Nets into our new home in Brooklyn," said King. "Deron is in my opinion the top point guard in the NBA. With his leadership and guidance on and off the court, the fans of Brooklyn should be proud."
Williams played in 55 games last season, averaging a career-high 21 points per game to go along with 8.7 assists.
"I am really excited to be able to officially say that Brooklyn is home," said Williams. "It is an incredible time to play in Brooklyn and to be a part of this organization, the first sports team to call Brooklyn home in over 50 years. I believe in the team and what we are going to be able to accomplish on the court, as well as in the community. My family and I have come to know New York and the more we do, the more we love it. I look forward to going to London to represent the United States in the Olympics and then coming back to Brooklyn to open Barclays Center."
Williams is a member of Team USA, which will represent the U.S. in the Olympics this summer in London.