The Golden State Warriors believe Brandin Podziemski took a big step forward last season. But according to coach Steve Kerr, the 22-year-old guard isn’t done growing.
“I think this is a year where he takes another step,” Kerr told reporters at training camp. “To be able to get through that crucible where you’re in the starting lineup, you’re in the playoffs, spotlight’s on you, you have a few bad shooting nights. Every player goes through that. He’s a tough guy and a tough player. I just think he’s on a very natural progression to continue his improvement.”
Warriors Want Podziemski to Build Consistency
Podziemski started in 11 of the Warriors’ 12 playoff games last season, averaging 11.3 points on 36.4% shooting. His best performance came in Game 4 against the Houston Rockets, when he erupted for 26 points and six three-pointers to push Golden State ahead in the series.
Kerr said the next step for Podziemski is to remain aggressive and avoid dwelling on bad nights. “One of the hardest lessons I ever learned as a player is when you have that bad night, you have to move on quickly. And you can’t let it carry over into the next day’s practice,” Kerr explained. “BP’s a big-time competitor, he cares. So, I want to help him move forward after those inevitable tough nights.”
The Other Area of Growth
While shooting and confidence matter, Kerr singled out something else entirely: composure.
“Honestly, you’ll laugh, but leaving the refs alone,” Kerr said. “That’s important. It’s important to his energy, his mindset. It’s important for our team’s mindset. And taking that next step in just being more even-keeled.”
Podziemski agreed. “The big thing to show another leap would be emotional maturity,” he said. “Talking to the refs is included in that. But just keeping a composure about myself so that my teammates see that.”
Why Podziemski’s Role Matters for the Warriors
Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesBrandin Podziemski, Golden State Warriors
As the Warriors’ veteran core ages, Kerr knows players like Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green will inevitably miss games. That’s when younger pieces such as Podziemski will be asked to carry more responsibility.
“And those games that the veterans are out, how can we manufacture wins?” Podziemski said. “I think I’m going to be a focal part of that when they’re out. So if they’re going to look to me and I’m out of whack emotionally, it becomes hard to win.”
Podziemski’s Strong Finish to Last Season
After a rough start to 2024–25 that included a 12-game injury absence, Podziemski finished the regular season strong. Over his final 34 games, he averaged 14.9 points while shooting 46.9% from the field and 41.2% from three.
It’s that kind of production that has Kerr optimistic Podziemski is ready for a bigger role in year three — as long as he balances his competitive fire with maturity.
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