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In a significant move aimed at cementing their future, the Golden State Warriors officially announced on Tuesday that they have exercised the fourth-year contract options on young phenoms Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody.
This decision underscores the team's commitment to building around their emerging talent. Jonathan Kuminga, 21, who was drafted by the Warriors as the seventh overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, has been making waves since his debut.
Averaging 11.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, 1.00 steal, and 21.6 minutes over three games this season, Kuminga achieved a unique milestone last season by becoming the youngest Warrior to hit the 1,000-point mark, surpassing the previous record held by Joe Smith.
In 140 career games, including 28 starts, he has posted averages of 9.7 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.4 assists. Moses Moody, also 21, hasn't been far behind. Selected 14th overall in the same draft, Moody has shown promise, especially in his ability to contribute on both ends of the floor.
Averaging 9.8 points, 3.0 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.50 steals over 19.4 minutes in four games this season, Moody's career figures stand at 4.8 points and 1.7 rebounds over 119 games, including 15 starts. Notably, Moody has managed to score in double digits in over half of his starts.
Strategic Extensions
The Warriors' decision to extend the contracts of these promising young players aligns well with the NBA's current collective bargaining agreement, which guarantees the first two years of a first-round draft pick's contract while leaving the third and fourth years as team options.
What this move also indicates is the Warriors' confidence in their scouting and developmental programs. It's a strategic investment in the future, banking on the high upside both Kuminga and Moody offer. As they continue to evolve, fans can likely expect more minutes and even starting roles for the duo in the near future, possibly filling in gaps when key players are rested or injured.
This announcement comes amid a series of similar moves across the NBA, as teams finalize their rosters and strategies for the season. But for Warriors fans, the news signals more than just routine contract extensions; it is a statement of intent that the franchise is not merely content with past glories but is keenly eyeing the future.