Full Breakdown
Mike Conley Signs One-Year Deal with Boston Celtics, Becomes 14th Player to Reach 20 NBA Seasons
7/2/2026, 3:12:47 PM
Milestone Signing with Boston
Free-agent guard Mike Conley Jr., 38, agreed Wednesday to a one-year contract with the Boston Celtics. ESPN’s Shams Charania reported the move, noting Conley becomes the 14th player in NBA history to appear in 20 seasons. Contract terms were not disclosed.
Two-Decade Career Overview
Conley was the No. 4 pick in the 2007 NBA Draft by the Memphis Grizzlies, where he spent twelve seasons. He later logged 3.5 seasons with Utah Jazz and Minnesota Timberwolves. He earned four Sportsmanship Awards, two Teammate of the Year honors, an All-Defensive Second Team nod in 2013 and an All-Star appearance in 2021.
Key Numbers
Over his career Conley averages 13.6 points, 5.5 assists, 2.9 rebounds and 1.3 steals, shooting 43.6%; in 2025-26 he logged 4.5 points, 1.7 rebounds and 2.9 assists on 33.5% shooting in 54 games. In the playoffs he had 12 points, six assists and no turnovers in Game 1 versus San Antonio.
Celtics Guard Depth and Expected Role
Boston’s backcourt includes Derrick White, Payton Pritchard, Ron Harper Jr., Hugo Gonzalez, Baylor Scheierman and Jaylen Brown. Conley adds veteran depth, offering a reliable bench option and a potential emergency starter. He will report to Boston’s training camp for the 2026-27 season as the Celtics aim to improve after their early playoff exit.
Official Reactions
Shams Charania of ESPN confirmed the signing and highlighted Conley’s 20-season milestone. Conley posted an Instagram note thanking the Timberwolves organization, team and fans for “making Minneapolis feel like home.” The Celtics have not issued a formal statement.
Criticism, Alternative Interest, and Reporting Gaps
Analysts noted Conley’s veteran-minimum contract and questioned his impact given recent shooting struggles. The Miami Heat reportedly explored a deal before opting out. Sources differ on his age—one lists him as 38, another says he will turn 39 in October. Exact Celtics contract terms remain undisclosed.
Verbatim Quotes
> "Free agent guard Mike Conley has agreed to a one-year deal to sign with the Boston Celtics, sources tell ESPN." — Shams Charania, ESPN reporter
> "Conley becomes only the 14th player in NBA history to reach 20 seasons." — Shams Charania, ESPN reporter
> "An incredible run! Thank you to the @Timberwolves organization, team, and fans for embracing me and my family, and making Minneapolis feel home." — Mike Conley Jr., Instagram post
> "Mike Conley is getting a one-year contract with Boston at the veteran minimum amount. Good guard depth for the Celtics behind Derrick White and Payton Pritchard." — Keith Smith, Heavy.com
What’s Next
Conley will report to Boston’s training camp ahead of the 2026-27 campaign, where the Celtics hope to leverage his experience to improve after their early playoff exit.
