Zion signs with Jordan Brand

Zion just jumped into Jumpman.

New Orleans Pelicans rookie Zion Williamson has signed an endorsement deal with Jordan Brand and announced the partnership in an Instagram post Tuesday.

In a statement provided by Nike, Jordan Brand's parent company, Williamson lauded the influence that Michael Jordan had on him as a child.

"I feel incredibly blessed to be a part of the Jordan Brand family," the 2019 first overall pick said. "Since I was a kid, I dreamed of making it to the league and having the type of impact on the game Michael Jordan had and continues to have today.

"He was one of those special athletes I looked up to, and I really can't express how happy and excited I am for this journey."

Jordan himself praised the addition of Williamson under his company's umbrella.

"Zion's incredible determination, character and, play are inspiring," said Jordan. "He's an essential part of the new talent that will help lead the brand into the future.

"He told us he would 'shock the world,' and asked us to believe him. We do."

Financial terms of Williamson's new shoe deal weren't disclosed. However, in April, former Nike and Adidas marketing executive Sonny Vaccaro said he expected any endorsement deal involving the Duke product to reach $100 million over 10 years.

Several shoe brands targeted Williamson this summer. Under Armor CEO Kevin Plank said his company had "to be smart" while approaching a potential bidding war for the 19-year-old.