Golden State Warriors veteran center Kevon Looney has made a life-changing decision just months before hitting NBA free agency.
On February 18, four days after Valentine’s Day, Looney announced on Instagram that he proposed to his longtime girlfriend, Mariah Simone.
“❤️💍 To Our Love, Always And Forever 💍❤️,” Looney captioned a carousel of nine photos capturing the moment.
Looney and Simone have been together for over five years. Simone, a fitness model and influencer, is also the founder of Msfit, a clothing brand that recently celebrated its fifth anniversary.
Looney’s Future With the Warriors Remains Uncertain
As a three-time NBA champion, Looney has been a key piece of the Warriors’ success. However, his future with the team is up in the air as he enters unrestricted free agency this summer. His three-year, $22.5 million contract will expire at the end of the season.
Last season, Looney’s role was reduced due to the rise of Trayce Jackson-Davis and the Warriors’ preference for small-ball lineups with Draymond Green at center. He even landed on the trade block as Golden State explored roster upgrades. His 290-game ironman streak—the second-longest in the NBA—came to an end as Jackson-Davis took over his role late last season.
Despite the setbacks, Looney has reclaimed his spot in Steve Kerr’s rotation this year. He remains the team’s top rebounder, averaging 6.9 rebounds, 5.0 points, 1.9 assists, and nearly one steal per game in just 16.1 minutes per contest.
Will the Warriors Keep Looney?
Keeping Looney could be crucial for the Warriors, but their growing payroll complicates the decision.
Golden State recently committed to a two-year, $111 million extension for Jimmy Butler, adding to the massive contracts of Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Butler, who will cost the team $140 million next season. Including the salaries of Buddy Hield, Moses Moody, Brandin Podziemski, and Trayce Jackson-Davis, that total jumps to $166 million.
With Jonathan Kuminga also seeking a lucrative extension—reportedly targeting $35 million annually—the Warriors face major salary cap challenges.
While Golden State has Looney’s Bird Rights, allowing them to sign him above the salary cap, he may have to wait until the team finalizes its other moves. That delay could open the door for other teams to swoop in with guaranteed money. Starting a family may push Looney to explore new opportunities outside of the Bay Area.
Should the Warriors prioritize keeping Looney? Drop your thoughts below!
