Stephen Curry #30 and Andre Iguodala #9 of the Golden State Warriors celebrate after defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers 105 to 97 during Game Six of the 2015 NBA Finals (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
The Golden State Warriors are set to retire Andre Iguodala's No. 9 jersey in a ceremony on February 23, following their matchup against the Dallas Mavericks at Chase Center, scheduled for a 12:30 p.m. tipoff. This honor will place Iguodala among the Pantheon of Warriors greats as only the seventh player in the franchise's storied history to have his jersey retired.
Iguodala, whose career with the Warriors spanned eight seasons, was a linchpin in the team's return to NBA preeminence. Over his tenure, he played in 452 regular-season games, starting 84, and averaged 6.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.4 assists in 26.0 minutes per game.
More impactful, perhaps, were his postseason contributions: In 111 playoff games, Iguodala averaged 8.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 1.1 steals over 28.5 minutes per game, playing a crucial role in the Warriors' four NBA championship victories during his time with the team.
The pinnacle of Iguodala's career came during the 2015 NBA Finals. With the Warriors trailing the Cleveland Cavaliers 2-1 in the series, Iguodala was inserted into the starting lineup, a strategic move that catalyzed a three-game winning streak, securing the Warriors' first NBA championship since 1975. His outstanding performance throughout the series, including 16.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 4.0 assists, earned him the NBA Finals MVP award.
Reflecting on the upcoming jersey retirement, Iguodala's former teammate and fellow multiple-time NBA champion Stephen Curry shared his thoughts with RG.
“I speak for both of us [Draymond Green and himself] when we talk about honor. It’s going to be fantastic for the entire organization to welcome my brother back,” Curry told RG. “He helped us win a lot of championships.”
Curry looks forward to many more jersey retirements honoring the Warriors dynasty that he helped. One can imagine his #30 jersey will be retired, along with Klay Thompson’s #11 and Draymond Green’s #23.
“It’s the first of many retirements,” Curry added..
Curry praised Iguodala's contributions to the Warriors’ success, highlighting his impact on the court and his role as a key figure in pivotal moments that defined their championship runs.
“His IQ, his impact on the game... We obviously don't win those without him,” Curry explained.
The ceremony in February promises to be a significant event, marking the celebration of Iguodala, a career that has left an indelible mark on the Warriors and their fans. Iguodala’s number will hang alongside those of legends like Alvin Attles (#16), Rick Barry (#24), Wilt Chamberlain (#14), Tom Meschery (#14), Chris Mullin (#17), and Nate Thurmond (#42).
Grant Afseth
