The Golden State Warriors established one of the most dominant dynasties in NBA history, capturing multiple championships, including their most recent title in 2022. A key figure, and isn’t Stephen Curry, in their sustained success was Andre Iguodala, whose leadership and experience played a crucial role both on and off the court.
Former Warriors guard Donte DiVincenzo recently reflected on Iguodala’s impact, sharing insights into the veteran’s work ethic and mentorship during their time together in the 2022-23 season—DiVincenzo’s lone season with the franchise and Iguodala’s final year in the NBA.
Speaking on The Old Man and the Three podcast, DiVincenzo praised Iguodala’s approach to the game, highlighting the veteran’s unwavering dedication even as his role diminished.
“Not everything is going to be smooth sailing throughout your career… To go to Golden State and just learn that approach every day, watching Steph [Curry],” DiVincenzo said. “People forget that Andre Iguodala was there. Watching him every day—I always joke with him, like, ‘60 years old, being in the gym first and last to leave all the time.’ He always had a positive mindset. He wasn’t playing much, but when he did play, he was ready.”
Donte DiVincenzo #0 of the Golden State Warriors dribbles against the Sacramento Kings
Iguodala’s leadership behind the scenes
While Iguodala played a limited role in both the regular season and playoffs, his veteran presence remained invaluable. DiVincenzo noted how Iguodala’s ability to stay mentally and physically prepared despite not seeing consistent minutes was a testament to his professionalism.
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“Somebody like him who’s had a hell of a career—you’re not playing, and you could easily say, ‘Alright, I’m not playing for the whole season.’ But then, when you’re thrown in there and still being productive, that’s super hard to do.”
DiVincenzo’s impact with the Warriors
During his lone season in Golden State, DiVincenzo appeared in 72 games, averaging 9.4 points, 4.5 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 1.3 steals, while shooting 43.5% from the field and 39.7% from three-point range. The Warriors’ title defense ended in the second round of the 2023 playoffs, as they fell to the Los Angeles Lakers in six games.
Iguodala’s legacy with Golden State
A four-time NBA champion, Iguodala spent eight seasons with the Warriors across two stints, appearing in 452 regular-season games while averaging 6.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 1.1 steals. His impact was even greater in the postseason, where he played 111 playoff games for the franchise and earned NBA Finals MVP honors in 2015 for his stellar performance against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
On February 23, 2024, the Warriors honored Iguodala by retiring his No. 9 jersey, cementing his legacy as one of the most influential players in NBA franchise history.
