For years now, many people have assumed that the fate of the Golden State Warriors rested solely on the shoulders of its legendary shooter, Steph Curry.
But that doesn’t give enough credit to the rest of the roster and the talented role players that are on it.
This year, many of the guys who are doing the best work on the team have been around the league for a while.
But finding a home with Golden State has revived their careers and given them a second life in the NBA.
Our Warriors' culture has definitely brought new life to this group of guys 💪 pic.twitter.com/jo3S0Ippoj
— Warriors Nation (@WarriorNationCP) June 15, 2022
Among the stars who have found a second wind with the Warriors are Gary Payton II, Nemanja Bjelica, Otto Porter Jr., and Andrew Wiggins.
Each of these guys is solid in the spotlight – and stepping up to the challenges that come with it.
Yes, Curry is truly vital to the team’s success but he’s just one part of a terrific squad.
Rise Of The Role Players
Each of the players listed have bounced around the league for a few years now.
Some have moved more than others.
Payton, for example, has played for three teams and has also been signed to several G League affiliates since joining the league back in 2016.
It’s great to see them find a team who understands them, finds a place for them, and really helps them meet their true potential.
Payton is now playing the best basketball of his career: this year, he averaged 7.1 points and 3.5 rebounds.
He even started in 16 games this year.
An NBA team needs some superstars and the Warriors have them.
However, their success is greatly enhanced because of the slew of role-playing vets who have come to life under head coach Steve Kerr.
