Former Spartan Max Christie inks huge new NBA contract

As a huge Michigan State fan, one thing I love to see is former Spartans getting paid in the pros. We’ve been spoiled to be able to watch many former Michigan State basketball players excel (and make a lot of money) in the NBA. Guys like Draymond Green and Jaren Jackson Jr. are a few of the former Spartans currently making big names for themselves in the NBA.

Now it’s time to add another Spartan to the list of guys getting paid in the NBA.

Adrian Wojnarowski with ESPN has reported that former Spartan Max Christie has signed a four-year, $32 million deal to stay with the Los Angeles Lakers. This deal comes at a time when the Lakers just drafted LeBron James’ son Bronny and are surely trying to build a contender around the James’ family. So clearly the Lakers organization are high on Christie and think he can be a big piece to contending for a championship.

Wojnarowski is arguably the most respected NBA insider in the industry, so the following quote again speaks to how good people think Christie is and can become.

“Christie has been a developmental success story for the Lakers.”

Christie has been with the Lakers since he was drafted in 2022 with the 35th overall pick in the second round. This past season with the Lakers, Christie averaged 4.2 points, 2.1 rebounds and, 0.9 assists per game, all of which are an increase from his rookie season. Sure these stats aren’t outstanding, but NBA teams don’t just sign players for no reason.

Clearly they see a successful path forward with Christie, and I for one can’t wait to cheer him on and watch him continue to improve.

Don’t be surprised to see a breakout year from Christie this season, because it seems both Los Angeles and NBA insiders expect it to happen.