The Golden State Warriors have had incredible luck in the NBA Drafts, consistently acquiring talented players. Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green were all drafted by the Warriors and played a crucial role in the team’s success, reaching six NBA Finals and winning four Championships.
In the 2023 NBA Draft, the Warriors selected Brandin Podziemski with the 19th overall pick. As a mid-first-round draft pick, there weren’t high expectations for him in his rookie year. However, the 20-year-old has impressed the coaching staff and gained their trust.
During a game against the Memphis Grizzlies, Podziemski showcased his playmaking skills, recording a career-high 14 assists. Head coach Steve Kerr praised him, stating, “He’s not a point, he’s not a two guard, he’s just a basketball player.” Kerr believes that Podziemski’s versatility and willingness to contribute in any way necessary will greatly benefit the team.
Despite playing as a shooting guard, Podziemski surprised everyone with his ability to distribute the ball. Alongside his 14 assists, he also contributed 12 points and 7 rebounds in the game against the Grizzlies.
When asked about Podziemski’s future position, Kerr responded by emphasizing that he is a basketball player who will do whatever it takes to help the team win. Whether he remains a shooting guard or transitions to a point guard role, Podziemski’s focus is on contributing to the team’s success.
In the 2023-24 NBA season, Podziemski is averaging 9.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game while playing an average of 25.1 minutes. His performance and versatility make him a valuable asset for the Warriors as they continue their pursuit of victory.
