Why Davis believes the Warriors will “surprise” people this season originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area
Baron Davis helped the Warriors author one of the NBA’s most incredible campaigns, and the former All-Star point guard believes Golden State will once again shock the basketball world during the 2024-25 NBA season.
The beloved Warriors franchise icon detailed why Golden State is positioned to improve during a disappointing 2023-24 season.
“I expect the Warriors to surprise a lot of people,” Davis said in an exclusive interview with DJ Siddiqi of ClutchPoints. “When you look at last year, I think they were a game-in team. But when you look at the up-and-down roller coaster where they were — where they could be — it was three or four games.”
“When I put my player and coach on, we were four games away from being in that fifth spot,” says Davis. “This team can be four games better than last year’s team. I think they have more talent, or just as much talent, fresh and good energy for the Warriors and then the young guys will have a bigger responsibility.”
One young player the Warriors can expect to rely heavily on is guard Brandin Pod Ziemiawho will look to build on a strong rookie season during his sophomore campaign.
Davis expressed tremendous confidence in Podziemski, while also applauding the moves made by general manager Mike Dunleavy and Golden State’s front office during the offseason.
“I expect a lot from Brandin Podziemski,” Davis told Siddiqi. “I think they did well with the additions of Kyle Anderson and Buddy Hield. They have veteran guys that can help them win games.
“When you think about Buddy Hield, one of the best 3-point shooters in the league, partnering with Steph. [Curry]Steph needs the other guys around – and Draymond [Green] also – they need the other guys around to develop into who they want to be,” Davis continued. “And that makes Draymond and Steph even more dangerous. I like the Warriors.”
After finishing last season as the No. 10 seed in the Western Conference, Davis is confident the Warriors will improve on their 46-36 record that resulted in an NBA playoff tournament loss to the Sacramento Kings.
“I think they’ll be better than they were last year, for sure,” Davis told Siddiqi.
