G League Ignite Hand Out Largest Contract In Team History

The G League Ignite are the destination for players who feel that playing against other young pros is the next step in their development, rather than college. The Ignite has handed out a seven-figure deal exceeding $1M to four-star recruit London Johnson—the largest contract in the team's history.

High-schooler London Johnson is bypassing college (UNC, Virginia, Alabama) and signing a two-year contract with the NBA G League Ignite. Sources say the seven-figure deal for Johnson, the 18-year-old Charlotte native, is the largest Ignite salary to date: https://t.co/BS6OhXt1mw

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) October 3, 2022

“The main (reason) was being able to play against NBA talent and getting coached from the highest level NBA coaches,” Johnson told The Atheltic while explaining why he has chosen to sign with the Ignite. “Also, seeing the success from past (prospects), I really felt like I could create my own path and be successful myself.”

The 18-year-old point guard out of Charlotte is bypassing college programs like UNC, Virginia and Alabama to sign the two-year contract. He expects to stay with the G League Ignite for two years. 

Welcome to the family our newest and youngest member @londonejohnson! We are so excited to have you for the next 2 years ⚡️

Read more: https://t.co/PlFHCFUo6W pic.twitter.com/bVtyRZQ92b

— NBA G League Ignite (@gleagueignite) October 3, 2022

Current Ignite guard Scoot Henderson had the previous highest contract, at $1M. Johnson's will exceed that. 

The 6'4" lead guard, Johnson says he models his game after Chris Paul, and reports say he has the basketball IQ, plus all the dribble, pass and shooting skills that his idol possesses.