Festus Ezeli reveals what it’s like to play against Al Horford, assesses new Golden State Warriors signing

Festus Ezeli says Al Horford is ‘a winner’ and he’s ‘physical’ on the court

Horford has played 18 seasons in the NBA, with his career beginning in the 2007-08 season.

Former Golden State Warriors big man Festus Ezeli had a chance to match up against Horford during the 2014-15 and 2015-16 seasons.

Horford was a member of the Atlanta Hawks during that time where he had solid seasons. He averaged 15 points and 7 boards.

Ezeli talked about his experience playing against Horford and praised the 39-year-old.

“Al Horford is a winner, he’s been a winner since he came into the NBA.

“When he gets on the floor he does all the right things. He’s had to improve his game year after year.

“When you are on the court against him he’s physical, he’s strong, he’s going to work hard, do all the little things, rebound, all those are things the Warriors need.

“That center position is so crucial to a team that loves playing small-ball. I think he gives the Warriors that versatility to play small and big at the same time.”

Festus Ezeli’s NBA career stats

Ezeli was a first round pick by Golden State in 2012, but he only played 3 seasons due to injury.

He played in 78 games in 2012-13 and 46 games apiece in 2015 and 2016 for a total of 170 games.

However, Ezeli played in 55 career playoff games, including 13 NBA Finals games. He never played again after the Game 7 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2016.

Ezeli played in 225 career games total with 25 percent of the games coming in the postseason.