Golden State Warriors guard Brandin Podziemski (2). John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports

Warriors rookie feels he is the heir apparent to Stephen Curry

By Sai Mohan | Last updated 2/20/24

Rookie Brandin Podziemski has been a revelation for the Warriors this season, leading the team in plus-minus while averaging 9.9 points, 5.8 rebounds and 3.9 assists in 26.4 minutes.

Besides stuffing the traditional stat sheet, Podziemski has brought with him the intangibles of the "energy guy" who dives for loose balls and fights for every rebound like his life depended on it.

There's a reason "Podz" leads the league in total charges drawn with 27, and his playing style has made him a favorite both in the locker room and among the Warriors faithful in Chase Center.

Podziemski, 20, also does not lack confidence. During NBA All-Star Weekend, he proclaimed himself to be the heir apparent to Stephen Curry, who turns 36 next month.

“When he retires, in how many years that may be, I feel like it's my job to fulfill what he's doing," Podziemski said, via NBC Sports.

Curry has seemingly taken Podziemski under his wing. Even before Podziemski started logging significant playing time, Curry would routinely praise the rookie for bringing energy to an aging team. He even shouted out Podziemski for displaying his skills on a national stage at All-Star Weekend.

My guy! @brandinpodziem2 https://t.co/k5MMMU6fNo
— Stephen Curry (@StephenCurry30) February 17, 2024

Podziemski hopes to keep absorbing knowledge from Curry while observing his every step.

"[Curry's] amazing," Podziemski said. "Just to see the things he does, as a husband, father, [and] businessman. To see how he treats people -- he's never too good for anybody. He always wants to be treated just like everybody else. You know, for some stars, that may be different. They [might] want a different reality of life. But Steph's one of those guys who doesn't care. He just wants to be like everybody else. [He] just wants a chance to play basketball. He loves it for the right reason."

In Podziemski and Jonathan Kuminga, the Warriors have surely unearthed two building blocks for the future. It remains to be seen if they can help Curry win his fifth championship.

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