Ibaka agreed to a four-year deal worth $48 million, league sources told Yahoo! Sports. Considered one of the top defensive players in the league, Ibaka would've been eligible to become a restricted free agent next summer.
Ibaka would be the latest member of the Western Conference champions to reach a long-term extension, joining Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook. The 6-10 Ibaka, who just completed his third season, averaged 9.5 points, 7.5 rebounds and 3.6 blocks this past season. He also was a member of Spain's silver medal-winning team at the 2012 Olympics.
What does this mean for Oklahoma City? Well, they now have their own big three like the Heat and Lakers.
I believe Ibaka has emerged on the scene as an All-Star caliber player. For some years to come, hopefully, OKC will win a ring before Durant, Westbrook and Ibaka's contracts are up. I like what OKC is doing by making sure they have their main players for the future.
Big expectations going into next season for the OKC.
Dedrick Hendrix is a contributing writer for FootBasket. You can follow him on Twitter @DedrickHendrix.
