After a tense summer filled with contract disputes and trade rumors, Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga has put an end to the speculation surrounding his future with the team. The 22-year-old star, fresh off signing a two-year, $48.5 million extension earlier this week, used his platform at Thursday’s practice to set the record straight: he’s all in with the Warriors, and he’s ready to chase championships in the Bay Area.
Kuminga’s third practice since inking the deal marked a turning point. Gone was the uncertainty that clouded his offseason, replaced by a laser focus on contributing to Golden State’s championship aspirations. His comments to reporters were a stark contrast to earlier reports suggesting his camp was open to a trade as soon as he becomes eligible in January 2026. Instead, Kuminga expressed a clear desire to stay with the Warriors for the entirety of the 2025-26 season—and beyond.
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“I would say (they want me here long term),” Kuminga said with confidence. “Based on just me being back here, based on now knowing, just feeling, I feel like I’ll be here. At the end of the day, let’s see where this takes us, but my focus this year is on pushing and actually helping us win. Like I said, you never know what’s going to happen, but I’m happy, glad to be back.”
Kuminga’s return has been met with open arms by his teammates, particularly Warriors’ cornerstones Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. Both veterans publicly voiced their support, emphasizing that Kuminga’s commitment to the team remains as strong as ever. The young forward shared that his teammates were thrilled to see him back on the court.
“I was with some of my teammates today, and most of them, all of them were happy to see me back here,” Kuminga revealed. He also took a moment to address the noise from fans on social media, noting that the negativity often comes from those not in the arena. “A lot of the fans get in their feelings so much, and it’s mostly not the ones that are actually at the game. It’s the ones that are home on Twitter, on TikTok, on social media.”
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Adding to the excitement of his return, Kuminga announced a significant change for the upcoming season: he’s swapping his old No. 00 for No. 1. The switch, he explained, symbolizes a fresh start following his new extension and the availability of the number. It’s a small but meaningful gesture, signaling his intent to write a new chapter with the Warriors.
Kuminga’s impact was undeniable in last season’s playoffs, particularly during Game 2 of the second round against the Minnesota Timberwolves on May 8, 2025, at Target Center. Driving to the basket with authority, he showcased the athleticism and skill that make him a cornerstone of Golden State’s future. With his contract secured and his focus sharpened, Kuminga is poised to take another leap in the 2025-26 season.
As the Warriors gear up for another championship run, Kuminga’s renewed commitment and optimistic outlook have silenced the trade rumors—for now. With his teammates’ support and a fresh jersey number, the young star is ready to prove he’s not just a part of the Warriors’ present, but a key piece of their future.