Orlando Magic forward Jonathan Isaac, known for his controversial decision to stand for the national anthem during the 2020 NBA bubble, has reportedly agreed to a five-year, $84 million contract extension with the team.
Orlando Magic forward Jonathan Isaac, who gained attention for standing for the national anthem while his teammates knelt during the 2020 NBA bubble, has reportedly agreed to a lucrative contract extension with the team.
ESPN reports that Isaac and the Magic have reached an agreement on a five-year, $84 million contract extension that will keep the forward in Orlando through the 2028-29 season.
Orlando Magic Forward Jonathan Isaac Signs $84 Million Extension
The 26-year-old New York native played in 58 games during the 2023-24 season, the most he has played since the 2018-19 season. He averaged 6.8 points and 4.5 rebounds per game, earning votes for the NBA 6th Man of the Year Award.
Isaac first gained national recognition when the NBA returned from the coronavirus pandemic and played games in a bubble atmosphere. Amid racial unrest in the wake of George Floyd's murder, many players knelt during the national anthem in protest.
Orlando Magic Forward Jonathan Isaac Signs $84 Million Extension
Isaac, however, chose to stand, citing his belief that the Black Lives Matter movement's rhetoric made him uncomfortable.
"For me, it was simply about offering another solution," Isaac told Riley Gaines on her "Gaines for Girls" podcast. "I saw the issue. I saw the problem. But I never truly felt comfortable with the Black Lives Matter organization and movement."
Orlando Magic Forward Jonathan Isaac Signs $84 Million Extension
Isaac's decision to stand was met with both support and criticism. However, his actions sparked a dialogue about the complex issues of race and social justice in America.
Unfortunately, Isaac tore his ACL in the bubble and missed the rest of the games. He spent the next two seasons on the bench recovering from the injury.
In the 2022-23 season, Isaac played in only 11 games before finally becoming healthy last year.
Isaac's extension is a testament to his talent and resilience. Despite missing significant time due to injury, he has shown that he can be a valuable contributor to the Magic.
The Magic are hoping that Isaac can continue to improve and become a key part of their future success. With his contract extension, Isaac is now locked in with the Magic for the next five years.
Fox News' Joe Morgan contributed to this report.
