In the quiet aftermath of a decade-long journey, Kevon Looney, the unsung hero of the Golden State Warriors’ dynasty, stood at the crossroads of his career. With a heart heavy with gratitude and eyes glistening from the weight of memories, Looney bid farewell to the team that shaped him, as he embarks on a new chapter with the New Orleans Pelicans on a two-year, $16 million contract. But not before Warriors coach Steve Kerr delivered a heartfelt goodbye that left Looney—and fans—reeling with emotion.
“It’s just been an amazing experience for me to coach you,” Kerr said in a poignant video message shared on the Warriors’ social media channels Monday night. His words carried the weight of a decade of shared triumphs, struggles, and unbreakable bonds. “Your professionalism, your dignity, your class, the way you handled yourself, the way you mentored your young teammates. And of course, the championship contributions that you made.”
For 10 years, Looney was the Warriors’ quiet cornerstone, a player whose impact transcended box scores. Selected 30th overall out of UCLA in the 2015 NBA Draft, his early career was plagued by injuries that threatened to derail his dreams. Yet, through sheer grit and determination, Looney carved out a vital role in Golden State’s glittering era, helping the team secure three NBA titles in six seasons. His relentless work in the post, battling bigger opponents and setting bone-crushing screens, became the heartbeat of a team defined by its star-studded flair.
In the Warriors’ most recent championship season, Looney started 80 games, showcasing his dependability. This past year, coming off the bench, he averaged 4.5 points and 6.1 rebounds in just 15 minutes per game—numbers that belie his true value. Looney was the glue, the player who did the dirty work so his teammates could shine. His quiet leadership and selflessness earned him the respect of teammates, coaches, and fans alike.
Kerr’s farewell message was a testament to Looney’s indelible mark on the franchise. “We can’t thank you enough. I can’t thank you enough,” Kerr continued, his voice thick with sincerity. “Thrilled for you for your opportunity in New Orleans. … Thank you for everything.”
As Looney prepares to don the Pelicans’ jersey, he leaves behind a legacy of resilience and sacrifice in Golden State. For Warriors fans, the departure of this quiet warrior stings—a reminder that even the most dependable pieces of a dynasty must eventually move on. But as Looney steps into his next challenge, he carries with him the love and gratitude of a franchise forever changed by his presence.