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Patrick Mahomes Inspired NBA Star's Astonishing New Contract

By Joe Summers

Jun 13, 2024; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) speaks to a staff member on the red carpet at the Nelson-Akins Museum of Art. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 13, 2024; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) speaks to a staff member on the red carpet at the Nelson-Akins Museum of Art. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports / Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
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Patrick Mahomes' impact on professional sports apparently stretches far beyond the NFL. New York Knicks star guard Jalen Brunson signed a discounted four-year, $156.5 million extension on Friday, and reports partially credit Mahomes' contract with the Chiefs as inspiration for the structure.

Brunson took $113 million less guaranteed than he could've gotten if he waited a year, though maintaining the Knicks' roster flexibility and cap space was a priority as he chases a championship.

Mahomes' unique contract gave the Chiefs that same flexibility, helping keep a star-studded roster together en route to two straight Super Bowls. If you're trying to emulate a winner, Mahomes is a good example to mimic.

Patrick Mahomes Helped Inspire Jalen Brunson's Contract Extension With Knicks

Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN explains, "Brunson's study of championship organizations and franchise stars -- Patrick Mahomes’ Kansas City Chiefs, Tom Brady’s New England Patriots and the Derek Jeter New York Yankees -- gave him a blueprint for MVP-level players who structured contracts to give their teams the best chances at sustainable title runs."

All three players are known as the consummate winner, willing to sacrifice personal gain for the greater good of the team. They're among the most successful athletes of our lifetimes, so it's safe to say the strategy worked out.

Mahomes might be the best bargain in the NFL right now, all things considered. Just like Brunson, he could've demanded a higher payday, but his sacrifice has been instrumental in achieving the ultimate goal.

Brunson's Knicks fell short in the playoffs this year, though they're well-positioned to make a run at the NBA Finals next year and beyond. When you have a superstar willing to put the team first, that selfless energy radiates throughout the organization.

If you ask me, that's a sign of exceptional leadership. Kansas City is lucky to have Mahomes, just like New York is lucky to have Brunson.

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