Golden State Warriors center James Wiseman has yet to play in front of his fans at Chase Center, due to pandemic restrictions in 2020-21, his rookie campaign. Naturally, he’s looking forward to doing just that.
But with rumors swirling about Wiseman’s future, some cynics might ask, “Sure, but what team will Wiseman be playing for?”
Those are just rumors, however. In reality, Wiseman is happily living in the here and now, where he’s a Golden State Warrior. At the Warriors’ Thrive City Block Party, held just outside Chase Center on July 3 and through the Fourth of July holiday, Wiseman professed his love for Warriors fans and said he can’t wait to feel the energy they’re so famous for.
“I love dub nation so much,” Wiseman said. “Greatest fans in the world to me. I just love being here. It was kind of odd this year, not having fans out there, but energy next year is going to be crazy so I can’t wait for it.”
Wiseman would have played in front of Dub Nation by now, but a torn meniscus in his knee prevented him from enjoying the home crowd that was allowed to attend the Warriors’ season-ending homestand, in addition to the team’s Play-In Tournament loss to the Grizzlies.
But despite this happy moment, Wiseman’s status for next year in Golden State is a legit question; general manager Bob Myers knows he must make the most of superstar guard Stephen Curry’s still potent and NBA-altering skill. The 33-year-old isn’t slowing down, as evidenced by his MVP-worthy performance in 2020-21.
That might mean Myers will trade Wiseman for a package including an NBA veteran. But for now, Wiseman rightfully can’t wait to play in front of one of the NBA’s most adulated fan bases. I, for one, hope Wiseman sticks around. He has a ton of talent, and used correctly by coach Steve Kerr, I believe he can help Curry and company win yet another NBA title.
Bay Area Sports Hub 