As the 2023 NBA Draft approached, Brandin Podziemski was wrapping up a workout at the Golden State Warriors’ practice facility. Little did he know, his performance had already captured the attention of the Warriors’ front office. In a brief but telling encounter, Warriors General Manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. descended from his office to deliver a message that would define Podziemski’s future with the team.
“A lot of these other teams are calling about you,” Dunleavy told Podziemski. “They want you, but you’re not going anywhere. You’re ours.”
Despite receiving several high-value trade offers for the 19th overall pick, the Warriors remained steadfast in their commitment to Podziemski. Weeks later, when rumors surfaced that the Utah Jazz might consider moving Lauri Markkanen, Podziemski’s name again became a focal point. However, the Warriors were clear in their intentions: Podziemski was off-limits.
The young guard’s value to the Warriors became even more apparent during a chance meeting with team owner Joe Lacob at a Las Vegas Aces game. Lacob reassured Podziemski, “You don’t have anything to worry about. You’re a priority here.” For a player entering only his second NBA season, this vote of confidence from such a prestigious organization was invaluable.
Podziemski’s rookie season had its challenges, but by December, he was already making significant strides. Starting over seasoned veterans like Andrew Wiggins and Klay Thompson, Podziemski quickly became a key component of the Warriors’ lineup. His ability to contribute across the board—whether through rebounding, defense, or playmaking—made him a valuable asset. By the end of the season, he had established himself as the team’s best plus/minus performer and a vital part of the Warriors’ most effective lineups.
Despite his success, there has been speculation among fans and media about whether the Warriors’ front office made the right decision in protecting Podziemski from trade discussions. With the Warriors still seemingly in need of a secondary scorer alongside Stephen Curry, some have questioned why the team didn’t pursue a trade for an established star like Markkanen.
Podziemski, however, is focused on his development and the role he can play in the Warriors’ future. “There is this looking at the front office kind of crazy,” Podziemski acknowledged. “Like, ‘You didn’t make any trades? You want to keep Brandin? Why him?’ I see my fair share of it. It’s cool, and it’s not. It’s cool to see you’re valued by another organization…But at the same time, now that the trade didn’t go through, people on social media look at it like it’s my fault.”
As he prepares for his second season, Podziemski is ready to take on a larger role, likely stepping into the spot once held by Thompson. He understands the expectations that come with his growing responsibilities but remains confident in his abilities. “I have expectations for myself to perform,” Podziemski said. “This is my job. But I don’t think there’s any nervousness to exceed expectations. I’m just going to be me.”
Podziemski’s journey from a lightly used freshman at Illinois to a standout at Santa Clara, and now a key player for the Warriors, is a testament to his perseverance and determination. His work ethic and willingness to embrace new challenges have made him an integral part of the Warriors’ plans. Whether he can develop into the All-Star the Warriors envision remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Podziemski is ready to prove himself on the NBA’s biggest stage.
