The Golden State Warriors have secured the return of veteran forward Draymond Green, re-signing the four-time NBA champion to a one-year contract worth $28 million after the franchise’s pursuit of LeBron James came to an end.

According to reports, Green had declined the same deal last month to create additional salary cap flexibility, allowing the Warriors to strengthen their bid for free-agent superstar James. The move reflected both the player’s commitment to the franchise and Golden State’s ambition to add another marquee name to its roster.

However, with James agreeing to join the Philadelphia 76ers earlier this week, the Warriors and Green quickly moved to finalise a new agreement on the original terms, ensuring the experienced forward remains with the team.

Green, 36, has spent his entire NBA career with Golden State after being selected in the 2012 NBA Draft. Over the past decade, he has become one of the defining figures of the franchise’s most successful era, helping the Warriors win NBA championships in 2015, 2017, 2018 and 2022 alongside teammates including Stephen Curry.

Although his scoring numbers are no longer at the level they once were, Green continues to be regarded as one of the team’s most influential leaders and a cornerstone of its defensive setup. His experience and versatility remain key assets as the Warriors prepare for another season.

Reports also suggested that Green had been prepared to sign a longer-term extension at a reduced annual salary if Golden State had successfully landed James. The veteran forward even played an active role in trying to recruit the NBA’s all-time leading scorer.

Speaking on a recent podcast, Green revealed that he personally spoke to James during the free agency process.

“I took the opportunity to throw my pitch in there,” Green said, describing his attempt to convince the superstar to join the Warriors.

While Green’s future has now been settled, attention is shifting to another franchise icon. Speculation continues over Stephen Curry, with reports linking the two-time NBA Most Valuable Player to interest from rival teams, including the Miami Heat.

Curry, 38, has also spent his entire NBA career with Golden State and is expected to become eligible to sign a two-year contract extension worth $137 million with the Warriors in the near future. His situation is likely to remain closely watched as the franchise looks to build its next chapter around its long-serving stars.