Golden State Warriors forward Andre Iguodala is debating whether or not to return for his 19th NBA season.
On Friday, the 38-year-old announced his decision to continue performing on the “Point Forward” YouTube podcast.
While NBA sportsbooks weren’t happy with the news, Warriors fans were. Golden State still has excellent odds to repeat in 2023.
“We’ve decided this particular announcement that I — I, myself, will be back for a 19th season, and ET [Evan Turner] And I’m going to go back to the entire NBA on the road to carry out our ‘Moving Forward’ mission,” Iguodala said.
“This is going to be the last special edition about sports because this is it. So, we’re going to have some fun this year. It’s going to be fun.”
“Oh, I’m really looking forward to getting back on the court with my guys. And getting back on track with ET to do what we can.
Andre Iguodala considered retiring with the Warriors.
Teammate Evan Turner asked Iguodala why he made the last-minute change of heart. “Yeah, I blame a few people,” the NBA star replied with a smile. “Oh, Steph Curry is the one person I blame.”
“But I know as a team, I’m blaming Draymond, Steph, Klein, Steve Kerr and Bob Myers a little bit. I think they really showed me a lot of love. you know what i mean. They helped me see my physical presence outside of the basketball game…”
In the 2004 NBA draft, Iguodala was selected ninth overall by the Philadelphia 76ers. From 2004–12, the Arizona product played with the Sixers. During the 2007-08 season, he averaged a career-high 19.9 points per game.
In 77 games with the Warriors during the 2014-2015 season, the forward averaged 7.8 points, 3.3 rebounds, 3 assists and 1.2 steals. He shot 46.6% from the field and 34.9% from 3-point range.
The forward won the 2015 NBA Finals MVP after averaging 16.3 points, 5.8 rebounds and 4 assists with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Andre Iguodala contributed to the Warriors’ three other championship seasons in 2017, 2018 and 2022. The Golden State front office and teammates are excited to see him back with the team for another season.