I was one of the first to examine the idea of Ament returning from a financial perspective going back 7 weeks ago, or so (in another thread). I made it clear that I thought it was a foregone conclusion that he was going pro (99.9%), but that a discussion was at least worth having about the financials, and that was comparing him being the 8th pick in 2026 vs the 3rd pick in 2027.
I don’t think he’d be wise to come back, but you mentioned not knowing about the 2027 class. Supposedly it’s like 2024 levels of weak (I’ve looked into this bc the grizzlies have three FRPs in that draft). So that would be one point in favor of him returning This year is kind of a freak draft...
www.volnation.com
Now that there is talk of him sliding to the back end of the lottery, let's examine those financials.
The 14th pick in 2025 would receive, at most,
$23,419,858 over 4 years. Only the first 2 years are guaranteed, and this is assuming signing for the 120% maximum, cashing in on the 3rd year and getting the full 48.1% increase in the 4th year.
Using the same 2025 NBA rookie scale just for comparison purposes, the 2rd overall pick will receive, in total,
$50,438,478 with the same assumptions as listed in the other scenario (full 4 yr completion, 120%, and full 4th year increase).
$50,438,478 vs $23,419,858
That is significant, especially when considering he probably commands around $5,000,000 in NIL if he returns. That is potentially a $32,000,000 difference.
I know the goal is that second NBA contract, but if that never happens, for any number of reasons, $32 mil is life-changing money. Now that the idea of staying is gaining more steam, even within his own circle, I think these are the numbers/reasons that are being considered.
