Josh Giddey lands blockbuster $100 million deal with Bulls following turbulent two-year journey.

Josh Giddey’s journey in the NBA has seen significant ups and downs. From a controversial relationship that nearly derailed his career to now being the cornerstone of the Chicago Bulls, Giddey has transformed his narrative. At just 22, he recently signed a four-year, $100 million contract to solidify his place as a leading figure in the league.

Early Career and Rising Star

Born in Melbourne, Australia, Josh Giddey was immersed in basketball from an early age, with both parents involved in the sport. His talent became evident quickly, leading him to be the first Australian to join the NBA Global Academy in Canberra in 2021, where he gained recognition as a top international prospect.

Giddey was selected sixth overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2021 NBA Draft, and he quickly began to prove his worth. Known for his impressive court vision and versatility, he made history by becoming the youngest player to record a triple-double in the NBA, achieving 17 points, 14 assists, and 13 rebounds against the Dallas Mavericks on January 2, 2022, at just 19 years old.

Throughout his first two seasons, he developed into a key playmaker and formed a strong partnership with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander during the Thunder’s rebuilding phase.

Controversy and Career Setback

Giddey’s career faced a serious challenge in late 2023 when allegations surfaced regarding an inappropriate relationship with a minor. Investigations by the Newport Beach Police Department and the NBA followed, focusing on events from 2021 when Giddey was 19 and the girl was reported to be 15. The brief relationship ended after a one-night encounter, and the alleged victim’s family eventually declined to cooperate, causing the matter to be dropped.

Despite the investigation’s conclusion, the impact on Giddey’s reputation was significant. His endorsement deal with Weet-Bix, worth $40 million, was jeopardized as the brand removed promotional images of him. On the court, his performance deteriorated, as he experienced declines in nearly all statistical categories, marking 2023 as the most challenging period of his career.

Fresh Start in Chicago

In the summer of 2024, Giddey was traded to the Chicago Bulls in exchange for defensive specialist Alex Caruso, a move that would redefine his career.

During his first season with the Bulls, Giddey experienced his best statistical performance yet, averaging 14.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, 7.2 assists, and 1.2 steals per game while achieving a career-high 37.8% from beyond the arc. Following the trade of All-Star Zach LaVine, Giddey stepped up as the primary ball-handler, thriving in the role.

After the All-Star break, he elevated his game, averaging 21.2 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 9.3 assists per game. His season included seven triple-doubles, the second-most in franchise history, trailing only Michael Jordan’s 15 from the 1988-89 season. Remarkably, Giddey achieved a rare stat line against the Los Angeles Lakers on March 22, 2025, with 15 points, 15 assists, 10 rebounds, and 8 steals, a feat that had never been accomplished since steals became an official statistic in 1973.

The $100 Million Payday

This week, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that Giddey signed a four-year, $100 million contract with the Bulls. The fully guaranteed deal highlights the franchise’s long-term commitment to him as the leader of their point guard position.

For Giddey, this contract signifies not only a key financial milestone but also a testament to his resilience. It marks the end of a challenging two-year chapter that threatened to derail his professional career. Instead, he has emerged stronger, more productive, and more valuable than ever.