In an exciting matchup at the Golden 1 Center on Sunday, the Golden State Warriors showed their depth and resilience by overcoming a 15-point deficit in the third quarter to defeat the Sacramento Kings in overtime. Without their star players like Stephen Curry and Chris Paul, the Warriors’ younger lineup took center stage, highlighting the team’s commitment to nurturing and developing new talents.
Jonathan Kuminga, the rising star of the Warriors, had another impressive performance, scoring a game-high 28 points, further solidifying his status as one of the preseason’s top players. He was supported by Lester Quinones, the 22-year-old summer league star, who added 18 crucial points, including the crucial three-pointer in overtime.
“One of the big things that we’ve talked to JK about is,” Warriors coach Steve Kerr said. “we’re not the most athletic team, we’re a very skilled team, but we don’t get to the line a ton. Near the bottom of the league last year. So if he can attack and get to the rim and get to the foul line, that makes us a better team. Same with the Wiggs [JK and Andrew Wiggins] can change our team with their athleticism.”
“[Warriors are] not the most athletic team… If [Jonathan Kuminga] can attack the rim and get to the foul line, it makes us a better team… [JK and Andrew Wiggins] can change our team with their athleticism.”
—Steve Kerr
(via @NBCSWarriors)pic.twitter.com/QKQJHwo1Kz
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) October 16, 2023
Coach Steve Kerr stated Kuminga’s value, pointing out the team’s need for athleticism and the ability to get to the foul line. Kerr praised the young talent, suggesting that players like him and Andrew Wiggins, who scored an important 20 points in just 22 minutes, have the potential to shape the team’s dynamic with their athleticism.
Steve Kerr plans on using Jonathan Kuminga’s outburst to keep up with the league’s pace
Jonathan Kuminga is unquestionably the star of this preseason, averaging 26 points over the last three games, Kuminga’s development and talent are evident. After the previous game against the Lakers, Warriors coach Steve Kerr expressed his confidence in Kuminga, stating, “I think he’s just more at peace with himself, embracing the coaching more. He’s just doing a good job of staying poised and playing through his mistakes. He’s having a great camp, so it’s exciting.”
Even though Kuminga’s role in the upcoming 2023-24 season is still a topic of discussion. As he isn’t amongst the Warriors’ main rotation, he may find himself behind Gary Payton II if he fails to continue his training camp and preseason performance.
Jonathan Kuminga got UP on this dunk 😤 pic.twitter.com/2hPp1GLdIS
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) October 14, 2023
However, if he does good in athleticism, it’s undeniable that the Warriors’ potential increases when Kuminga is in form. Kerr has specifically noted improvement in Kuminga’s three-point shooting and expects even more progress as he spends more time on the court.
Kuminga has a unique combination of skill and physicality. If his mental game continues to improve alongside his physical prowess, Kuminga could soon position himself as one of the top young forwards in the league. Such growth could be helpful for the Warriors’ return to championship contention.