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Former NBA champion Kevin Garnett has praised Warriors veteran center Kevon Looney for his defensive tenacity.
Looney emerged as one of the key contributors for the Dubs during their championship run last season. His drive to win rebounds, fight 50-50 balls and guard superstar centers like Anthony Davis and Joel Embiid caught Garnett's eye.
During a recent episode of his podcast, "KG Certified," Garnett said (via Legion Hoops):
"Looney gonna fall eight times, grab the rebound, guard AD, guard f***ing [Nikola Jokic], guard f***ing Embiid. He don’t give a f**k. ... Looney about 25 years old [and] look like he [is] 72 years old out there.”
Looney delivered for the Warriors from start to finish, proving to be their most durable player during the 2021-22 NBA season. He played all 82 games during the regular-season and 22 games during the playoffs.
Looney was a difference-maker on the glass and on the defensive end of the floor. During the postseason, he averaged 5.8 points, 7.8 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game, while shooting 65.9% from the floor.
Every contending team needs a player to make the most of their limited role by playing good defense and doing the "dirty work." Kevon Looney fits that description to perfection.
The Golden State Warriors showed their trust in the three-time NBA champion this offseason by signing him to a three-year $22.5 million extension. They did so while letting go of other impactful role players like Gary Payton II and Otto Porter Jr.
3x NBA champion Kevon Looney emerging as a leader within the Warriors star-studded locker room
Kevon Looney has impressed the Golden State Warriors with his impactful play on the court and also seems to be excelling off of it now.
Looney has emerged as a leader within the Warriors' organization, having been with the team for a long time and is a core member.
Coach Steve Kerr mentioned that Looney played a crucial role in helping the Warriors stick together following the Draymond Green-Jordan Poole altercation. Kerr revealed Looney's voice was a significant factor in how the team dealt with the situation over the last two weeks.
He also reflected on the influence Looney had on the locker room:
"He’s become the moral compass of our team… I’ll ride with Loon forever, he’s a special man," said Kerr about Looney (via Kylen Mills).
Looney has expressed his desire to remain a Warriors player for life. He could be the leader they will need when they transition into a new era after Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green are not around.
Looney's leadership will likely be crucial when Golden State prepares for a new era. He could play a key role in extending their dynasty in the NBA alongside other young players like Jordan Poole, Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody.
Guess the Lakers players!
