One of Steve Kerr‘s most trusted soldiers, Kevon Looney, stepped up for the Warriors yet again. Despite his reduced role on the team lately, the 6-foot-9 continues to impact the game in different ways. While his contributions might be difficult to assess statistically, he can be addressed as Mr. Dependable.
A homegrown talent, the Warriors drafted Looney as the 30th pick in 2015. This makes him the current franchise’s longest-tenured player after Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. A witness to several eras, from the 2017 superteam to a brief rebuild, the 2022 comeback, and recent hardships.
However, one thing that has remained constant is Looney’s contributions to the Bay Area. Wednesday night’s win over the Timberwolves was another example. The three-time champion’s hustle in crunch time could have possibly saved the Warriors from an embarrassing loss.
Kevon Looney’s Unnoticed 1000 IQ Play Helps Warriors Win
Warriors Veteran Steps Up in Clutch
Looney posted four points, six assists, five rebounds, and a block against the Wolves. A perfect 2-for-2 from the field, the 28-year-old made a game-saving play toward the end. A point differential with Gary Payton II at the line to make two free throws, missing his second attempt.
Fortunately, Looney’s timely play, allowed him to tip the ball to Andrew Wiggins, who ended up getting the rebound. Wiggins would in-turn pass the ball to Curry, who was then fouled. Making both his free throws, the two-time MVP helped the Dubs escape a fourth-quarter collapse.
Standing between the big bodies of Rudy Gobert and Jaden McDaniels, the Warriors’ big man somehow boxed his way out. As both teams attempted for the rebound, Looney’s tip had Wiggins secure the timely offensive board. Surprisingly, the UCLA alumnus has been seen in a limited capacity of late.
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A lot of this has to do with coach Kerr figuring out his adjustments around Trayce Jackson-Davis and Jonathan Kuminga. Nonetheless, Looney didn’t make any hue and cry about the decision, displaying complete grace, and keeping the bigger picture in mind.
Is Kevon Looney in the Warriors Starting Five?
Not so long back, Kerr expressed guilt over his decision to bench Looney. Having donned the Warriors uniform for almost a decade now, Loon has been instrumental in many of the team’s wins. Not the traditional NBA big, the Wisconsin native relentless drive, ability to grind, and winner mindset differentiate him from his peers.
Having him in the starting five can be debatable, but Looney should not sit out at any cost. He has started in five out of 34 games this season most recently, on December 19th. On the season, Looney is averaging 15.9 minutes. The Warriors’ big man’s perseverance, work ethic, and leadership are the need of the hour for his team.
The Last Word
No doubt, the trio of Curry, Thompson, and Green would be etched as the core of the Warriors dynasty. Nevertheless, Looney’s accomplishments cannot be overlooked. Part of the franchise’s roller-coaster journey over the years, Loon has fulfilled his role regularly. A fan favorite, the management needs to ensure Looney’s valuable participation in the franchise’s success isn’t forgotten. The Warriors veteran deserves to have a highlight reel of some of his playoff performances when it’s all said and done.
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