DeAndre Jordan Career Decision Announced After 18 NBA Seasons
DeAndre Jordan's fame grew with the Los Angeles Clippers, where he formed the other half of the "Lob City" duo alongside forward Blake Griffin. After being selected by Los Angeles with the No. 35 overall pick in the second round of the 2008 NBA Draft, Jordan has greatly outplayed expectations.
Jordan has been a defensive menace throughout his NBA career, with the 6-foot-11 center twice making the All-Defensive First Team (2015, 2016). Jordan has been more than just a defensive specialist and dunker, with the Christian Life Center Academy graduate leading the league in rebounding in 2014 and 2015. The Texas A&M Aggies standout has been honored with three All-NBA Team selections, including a First Team nod in 2016.
DeAndre Jordan is now a free agent, and with this year's crop of available players, including guard James Harden, forward Draymond Green and, most notably, forward LeBron James, all eyes are on 2026 NBA free agency. The frenzy began Tuesday at 6 p.m. ET, and DeAndre Jordan made it clear early where he would be spending next season.
In a post on the social media platform X, NBA insider Chris Haynes reported that the Texas native will spend the 2026-27 NBA season with the New Orleans Pelicans. Jordan joins a Pelicans roster that has the No. 13 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Derik Queen, and Yves Missi under contract as competition at center.
"Free agent center DeAndre Jordan is re-signing with the New Orleans Pelicans," Haynes wrote on X. "For what will be his 19th NBA season, league sources tell me."
Free agent center DeAndre Jordan is re-signing with the New Orleans Pelicans for what will be his 19th NBA season, league sources tell me. pic.twitter.com/gv1bWchDkY
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) June 30, 2026
This is the initial negotiation period for NBA free agents before they can officially sign at 12:01 p.m. ET on July 6. Any deals reported before then are not officially confirmed.
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This story was originally published June 30, 2026 at 7:04 PM.