The Golden State Warriors have officially exercised their third-year contract option on guard Brandin Podziemski. This decision comes as Podziemski has demonstrated solid performance early in the 2024 season.
At just 21 years old, Podziemski is currently averaging 9.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 3.5 assists in 27.0 minutes over four games this season. His contributions have been crucial to the Warriors’ early success.
During his rookie campaign, the Santa Clara product played in 74 games, starting 28 of them. He averaged 9.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in 26.6 minutes per game.
His performance last season earned him a spot on the 2023-24 NBA All-Rookie First Team. Podziemski became the 19th player in Warriors history to achieve this honor.
Notably, he led the NBA with 38 charges drawn during his rookie year. Among first-year players, the 6’4″ guard ranked fifth in assists, sixth in rebounds, and 10th in both scoring and steals.
His shooting from beyond the arc was also impressive, placing him third in 3-point field goal percentage at 38.5%. Podziemski’s ability to contribute across multiple statistical categories has proven valuable for the Warriors.
Throughout his rookie season, he recorded 17 games with at least 10 points, five rebounds, and five assists. This statistic ranked second among all rookies, just behind San Antonio’s Victor Wembanyama, who had 23 such games.
With career averages of 9.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in 26.6 minutes per game, Podziemski has shown significant growth since joining the NBA. His versatility on the court is a crucial asset for the Warriors moving forward.
Under the current collective bargaining agreement, the first two years of a first-round draft pick’s contract are guaranteed. The third and fourth years are at the discretion of the team.
