Warriors' Steve Kerr Makes Decision After Brandin Podziemski Injury News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | Last updated Mar 6, 2025 9:11 PM ET

The Golden State Warriors trailed by 22 points in the first half of Thursday's game against the Brooklyn Nets, but rallied to cut the deficit to just five points at halftime. Golden State's early deficit was aided by the departure of starting guard Brandin Podziemski who exited the game less than one minute after it started.

"Brandin Podziemski is leaving the game in pain in Brooklyn in the first minute tonight," Anthony Slater of The Athletic posted on X during the first quarter of Thursday's game. "Grabbing at his lower back. Called to the bench and walked to the locker room."

Brandin Podziemski is leaving the game in pain in Brooklyn in the first minute tonight. Grabbing at his lower back. Called to the bench and walked to the locker room.
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) March 7, 2025

The Warriors later announced the second-year guard was TBD to return with lower back soreness. Not long after that initial announcement, the Warriors ruled Podziemski out for the game.

"Brandin Podziemski (lower back soreness) will not return in tonight's game," the team announced via its public relations account on X.

Brandin Podziemski (lower back soreness) will not return in tonight's game
— Warriors PR (@WarriorsPR) March 7, 2025

With Podziemski unable to start the second half, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr had a decision to make. Rather than opting for Buddy Hield, who has started 22 games this season, Kerr decided to give Brazilian forward Gui Santos the second half start.

Santos has emerged into a consistent rotation option for Kerr and the Warriors this season, averaging 4.0 points on 46.1% shooting in a career-high 13.1 minutes per contest.

Kerr has spoken highly of Santos, communicating with the media that he trusts the 22-year-old despite his inexperience. If Podziemski misses extended time, it could mean an increased opportunity for Santos and others.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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