The Golden State Warriors have added some new pieces to their roster, with swapping out Jordan Poole for Chris Paul drawing the most attention. However, there is one player that might fly under the radar. The Warriors selected Brandin Podziemski 19th overall in the 2023 draft. He just got some major praise from superstar and teammate Stephen Curry.
Podziemski is a 6’5 combo guard who only spent two years in college. As part of the Santa Clara Broncos, he averaged 19.9 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in 2022-23. He was selected by the Warriors, possibly as a young replacement for their aging guards, Curry and Paul.
With that in mind, he has been applauded for what he’s shown so far by the best player on the team. Curry is already impressed with what he’s seen from the rookie, praising
“BP has been showing how much he understands the game of basketball at a young age and how confident he is in himself, and that shows every time he steps on the floor,” Curry said. “That’s a nice surprise.”
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Brandin Podziemski, Stephen Curry & Golden State Warriors Updates
Podziemski had an impressive outing in the recent pre-season game against the Lakers. He had a double-double with 10 points and 10 assists on 50% shooting in 26 minutes.
Warriors coach Steve Kerr has also shared the same impressions as Curry. Kerr spoke about Podziemski’s great feel for the game, enabling him to be at least one step ahead on the floor.
“Brandin has a great feel for the game,” head coach Steve Kerr said last week. “He definitely leads the team in deflections in the first week or 10 days, whatever it’s been. He’s constantly one step ahead of the play at both ends. Rotating defensively, cross-grating the ball, and catching the defense off guard with a cross-court pass. He has a great feel.”
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Brandin Podziemski, Stephen Curry & Golden State Warriors Updates
Although it is still the pre-season, the 19th pick in the draft has been a good surprise for the Warriors. The fact that Curry and Kerr are high on him allows him to stay confident.
Following the departure of Donte DiVincenzo, Podziemski will be needed as a player who will be fighting for minutes at the guard position. The team looks forward to his performance once the regular season starts.
