Brandin Podziemski of the Golden State Warriors has found himself under the spotlight this season, and not always for positive reasons. His comments about aiming to surpass Stephen Curry have made him a target for some fans.
‘Delusional’ Comments Spark Debate
After Podziemski’s ambitious statements, a KNBR radio host, Greg Silver, used the word ‘delusional’ when discussing the young player. Silver’s comments came in the context of the San Francisco 49ers potentially acquiring Mike Evans. He suggested that established players like Evans have ‘earned the right to be delusional,’ unlike younger players such as Podziemski who are still proving themselves.
The radio host’s point was that Evans, an NFL player likely headed for the Hall of Fame, has the credibility to make bold claims. Podziemski, on the other hand, is viewed as someone who talks a big game but hasn’t yet fully delivered.
While the term ‘delusional’ might be considered strong, it reflects the sentiment of some within the Warriors fanbase.
Stats Show Solid Performance
Despite the criticism, Podziemski’s statistics this season suggest he is performing well. He’s shooting 44.8% from the field, consistent with his first two NBA seasons. His three-point shooting stands at 37.2%, and his average of 12.8 points per game marks a career high.
- Field goal percentage: 44.8%
- Three-point percentage: 37.2%
- Points per game: 12.8
With the Warriors dealing with numerous injuries, Podziemski has arguably become their best offensive outlet.
Kerr Defends Under-Fire Player
Steve Kerr has defended Podziemski, and the player responded with a 26-point performance against the Houston Rockets. Some speculate that Podziemski’s earlier comments have fuelled the negative attention from fans. His local connections, having attended Santa Clara University, could have made him a fan favourite under different circumstances.
If Podziemski continues to develop and improve, he may win over the doubters in the fanbase. Consistency will be key for him moving forward.