The Golden State Warriors, originally established as the Philadelphia Warriors in 1946, have undergone several transformations, relocating to San Francisco in 1962 and adopting the Golden State moniker in 1971. Throughout these eras, the franchise has been home to numerous basketball legends. Here is a selection of the top 10 players and a head coach who have significantly impacted the Warriors’ storied history.
Starting Five
Point Guard: Stephen Curry (2009–Present)
Stephen Curry has revolutionized the game with his exceptional shooting and ball-handling skills. A two-time MVP and multiple-time NBA champion, Curry’s influence extends beyond statistics, as he has transformed the Warriors into a perennial powerhouse.
Shooting Guard: Klay Thompson (2011–Present)
Klay Thompson, one half of the “Splash Brothers,” is renowned for his shooting prowess and defensive capabilities. His contributions have been instrumental in the Warriors’ championship runs, providing consistent scoring and perimeter defense.
Small Forward: Rick Barry (1965–1967, 1972–1978)
Rick Barry’s tenure with the Warriors was marked by his scoring ability and competitive drive. Leading the team to an NBA championship in 1975, Barry’s underhanded free-throw technique and all-around play have cemented his legacy in Warriors history.
Power Forward: Kevin Durant (2016–2019)
Kevin Durant’s time with the Warriors, though brief, was impactful. His scoring versatility and defensive presence contributed to two NBA championships and earned him Finals MVP honors, solidifying the Warriors’ dominance during his tenure.
Center: Wilt Chamberlain (1959–1965)
Wilt Chamberlain’s dominance in the paint is legendary. During his time with the Warriors, he set numerous scoring records, including a 100-point game, showcasing his unparalleled athleticism and scoring ability.
Bench
Guard: Chris Mullin (1985–1997, 2000–2001)
Chris Mullin’s sharpshooting and basketball IQ made him a standout player for the Warriors. As a five-time All-Star, his contributions on offense were pivotal during his tenure with the team.
Guard: Tim Hardaway (1989–1996)
Tim Hardaway’s crossover dribble and scoring ability electrified fans. As a key member of the “Run TMC” trio, his playmaking skills were instrumental in the Warriors’ high-octane offense during the early ’90s.
Guard: Mitch Richmond (1988-1991)
Mitch Richmond was one of the most consistent and underrated shooting guards of his era. A six-time NBA All-Star, Richmond played 14 seasons in the league (1988–2002) and was known for his elite scoring ability, smooth jump shot, and durability, primarily for the Warriors.
Richmond was drafted 5th overall by the Golden State Warriors in 1988 and immediately made an impact, winning NBA Rookie of the Year. He formed part of the exciting “Run TMC” trio alongside Tim Hardaway and Chris Mullin. However, after just three seasons, Richmond was traded to the Sacramento Kings, where he became the franchise’s centerpiece. Over seven seasons with the Kings, Richmond averaged over 21 points per game every year, earning multiple All-NBA selections despite playing on a struggling team.
In 1998, Richmond was traded to the Washington Wizards, where his production declined as he aged. He won an NBA championship with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2002, though he played a minor role.
Richmond retired with 20,497 career points, solidifying his reputation as one of the best pure scorers of the 1990s. In 2014, he was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame, recognizing his contributions to the game.
Forward: Paul Arizin (1950–1962)
Paul Arizin was one of the NBA’s early stars, known for his scoring ability and smooth jump shot. A two-time scoring champion and ten-time All-Star, Arizin’s contributions were foundational in the Warriors’ early success. citeturn0search0
Center: Nate Thurmond (1963–1974)
Nate Thurmond’s defensive tenacity and rebounding skills made him a formidable presence in the paint. A seven-time All-Star, Thurmond’s impact on defense was significant during his tenure with the Warriors.
Head Coach: Steve Kerr
Steve Kerr has transformed the Warriors into a modern dynasty, implementing a style of play that emphasizes ball movement and three-point shooting. Under his leadership, the team has secured multiple championships, and he recently became the franchise’s all-time winningest coach, surpassing Al Attles with his 558th victory. citeturn0news17
This collection of players and coach represents the rich history and evolution of the Warriors franchise, highlighting the talents and leadership that have contributed to its success over the decades.
