FridayOL

Reliving Kent Bazemore's Early Days with the Golden State Warriors

Kent Bazemore's NBA career is a story of perseverance and evolution. While he's become a seasoned veteran known for his energy and versatility, many fans might remember his early days with the Golden State Warriors. From 2012 to 2014, Bazemore was a part of a Warriors team on the cusp of greatness, and his jersey numbers – Nos. 20 and 26 – represent a significant, albeit brief, chapter in his career. Let's take a closer look at Bazemore's time in the Bay Area and the impact he made.

Jersey No. 20: A Foundation Built

Bazemore initially joined the Warriors as an undrafted free agent in 2012. He was assigned to the D-League's Santa Cruz Warriors, where he honed his skills and proved his worth. His hustle and defensive tenacity earned him a call-up to the main roster. During this period, he primarily wore jersey No. 20. It was a time of learning and development for Bazemore, as he adjusted to the speed and intensity of the NBA. While his stats weren’t eye-popping – averaging 4.1 points and 1.7 rebounds per game – his effort and willingness to do the “little things” didn’t go unnoticed by coaches and teammates.

Transition to No. 26 and Continued Growth

After a year in jersey No. 20, Bazemore switched to No. 26 for the 2013-14 season. This period saw a slight increase in his playing time and responsibility. He began to showcase flashes of his potential, demonstrating his athleticism and defensive capabilities. The Warriors were building a dynasty, and while Bazemore wasn’t a central figure, he was a valuable contributor to the team's depth. The team's chemistry was developing, and Bazemore's role, however small, was a part of that process.

Beyond the Numbers: Bazemore's Contribution

It's important to remember that during Bazemore's time with the Warriors, the team was undergoing a significant transformation. Stephen Curry was emerging as a superstar, and the Warriors were experimenting with different lineups and strategies. Bazemore's role was primarily as a bench player, providing energy and defensive support. He wasn't expected to be a scorer, but he consistently brought hustle and a positive attitude to the court. His ability to guard multiple positions and create turnovers proved valuable in certain situations.

A Stepping Stone in a Long Career

Bazemore's stint with the Warriors ultimately served as a stepping stone in his long and winding NBA career. He's gone on to play for several other teams, establishing himself as a reliable role player known for his defensive intensity and scoring bursts. His time in Golden State provided him with valuable experience and helped him develop the skills and confidence he needed to succeed at the highest level. Looking back, jersey Nos. 20 and 26 represent a foundational period in the career of a player who continues to impact the NBA.

Looking Ahead

As Kent Bazemore continues his journey in the NBA, it’s always interesting to reflect on the early stages of a player’s career. His time with the Golden State Warriors, though brief, played a crucial role in shaping the player he is today. And for Warriors fans, remembering jersey Nos. 20 and 26 provides a nostalgic look back at a team on the rise.