Medium Three?

ESPN.com – Free Agency Frenzy

By Almondoh Joi | Senior Insider Analyst

Published: July 25, 2025

BOL, BEN & BRYCE: Hornets Make Statement with Trio of Unconventional Signings

CHARLOTTE — In the whirlwind of 2025 NBA free agency, the Charlotte Hornets have planted their flag — not by chasing superstars, but by doubling down on upside.

On July 25, the Hornets stunned the league by inking three polarizing players to long-term deals:

• Bol Bol: 4 years, $12.9 million

• Ben Simmons: 4 years, $16 million

• Bryce McGowens: 3 years, $15 million

Dubbed internally as “The Visionaries”, all three players are seen as high-ceiling wild cards — gambles that could either define Charlotte’s rebuild or fade into cap-space purgatory. But one thing is certain: GM Jeff Peterson is building a roster unlike any in the NBA.

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Bol Bol: The Unicorn Experiment Reborn

Once considered a novelty, Bol Bol finally showed signs of growth with Phoenix in limited minutes last season — flashing ball-handling, shot-blocking, and shot-creation at 7’3”. Charlotte sees him as a long-term project worth betting on.

“Bol is finally getting a system that believes in him,” said one Hornets coach. “He’s not a backup anymore. He’s a weapon.”

Bol is expected to operate as a hybrid 4/5, playing alongside Donovan Clingan or even in small-ball lineups with Brandon Miller and Ziaire Williams on the wings.

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Ben Simmons: Low-Risk, High-Reward Revival

It wasn’t that long ago that Ben Simmons was a three-time All-Star. Now, the 28-year-old joins Charlotte on a team-friendly deal worth $4 million per year — a bargain basement bet on one of the league’s most enigmatic talents.

Simmons reportedly impressed Hornets brass in a private workout, flashing mobility, strength, and defensive IQ.

“He’s not coming here to be ‘The Guy,’” a source told ESPN. “He’s coming here to be the glue — the stabilizer. Think Draymond, not LeBron.”

If healthy, Simmons could function as a point-forward, helping orchestrate plays for Miller and Clingan while anchoring a young defensive core.

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Bryce McGowens: The Return of a Buzz City Favorite

Bryce McGowens is back — and this time, he’s staying for the long haul.

After a brief stint with Sacramento, McGowens returns to Charlotte on a 3-year deal that rewards his growth and relationships within the organization. He’s expected to compete for a starting spot at the 2-guard position.

McGowens reportedly turned down offers from Golden State and Indiana, citing “unfinished business” in the Queen City.

“I love this city. I love this team. It’s time to show the league what I can do,” he told reporters.

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The Roster Today: Chaos or Genius?

With these signings, the Hornets’ 2025-26 depth chart is taking shape:

• PG: Scottie Pippen Jr. / Ben Simmons

• SG: Bryce McGowens / Ziaire Williams

• SF: Brandon Miller

• PF: Bol Bol / Pat Connaughton

• C: Donovan Clingan / Day’Ron Sharpe / Nick Richards

A chaotic, lengthy, versatile group built to defend, switch, and develop.

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League Reaction: Stunned and Intrigued

• Woj on SportsCenter: “Nobody’s rebuilding like Charlotte. These aren’t safe moves. They’re bold, experimental, and completely unpredictable.”

• Zach Lowe on ‘The Lowe Post’: “It’s weird. It’s a lot. But it might just work if two of these guys pan out.”

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Final Word

Jeff Peterson and the Charlotte Hornets are playing 4D chess in a checkers league. They’re not just rebuilding — they’re redefining.

And if Bol, Ben, or Bryce becomes even half of what they could be?

This might be remembered as the day the Hornets turned the corner.

Almondoh Joi covers NBA free agency, trades, and team-building strategies for ESPN. Follow him on X @AlmondohKnows.