SAN FRANCISCO – Brandin Podziemski is poised to take a significant step forward as he enters his third season with the Golden State Warriors. After a transformative offseason, Podziemski is focusing on channeling his competitive spirit into effective gameplay rather than disputes with referees.
Podziemski’s journey this summer was marked by both challenges and growth. Following surgeries on his left wrist and core, he was sidelined for two months, a period that redefined his relationship with basketball. “I had never had to get a surgery before in my life,” Podziemski shared with the Bay Area News Group. “When that’s taken away from you, and you can’t do anything and it’s out of your control, you realize your love for basketball.”
During his recovery, the 22-year-old found creative ways to engage with the sport. He became a familiar face at WNBA games, passionately supporting the Bay Area’s Valkyries. Podziemski embraced his role as an unofficial mascot, donning jerseys and energetically cheering for the team. His enthusiasm culminated in attending their playoff game in San Jose, which he described as his favorite memory of the season.
Connecting with Sports Culture
Podziemski’s dedication to sports extends beyond basketball. He was seen at Stanley Cup playoff games, supporting his beloved Edmonton Oilers. His affinity for the Oilers stems from a childhood trip to Tampa Bay, where he was captivated by the team’s vibrant orange colors during a game against the Lightning. “I had no idea about hockey at the time, but I was like, just I like the color, the bright orange,” he recalled.
His commitment to sports also includes a connection to his hometown teams, particularly the Milwaukee Brewers. After forming a friendship with Brewers second baseman Brice Turang, Podziemski’s investment in the team deepened.
Despite his off-court activities, Podziemski’s primary focus returned to basketball once he was cleared on August 1, 2025. He concentrated on essential skills like shooting and dribbling, but emphasized the importance of emotional maturity on the court. “If they don’t trust you to go out there and be emotionally mature, it doesn’t matter what you work on in the summer,” he explained.
Guidance and Growth
Podziemski received valuable support from Seth Cooper, the Warriors’ director of player development. Cooper, also from Wisconsin, aimed to help Podziemski recognize the impact of his on-court demeanor, particularly his tendency to argue with officials. “When he puts his energy toward the refs, it takes away part of his energy from knowing what the next play is,” Cooper noted.
Despite the progress, challenges remain. In a recent preseason game against the Los Angeles Lakers, Podziemski exhibited frustration over a traveling call, prompting intervention from teammate Steph Curry. Yet, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr expressed optimism regarding Podziemski’s development. “He’s getting better and better,” Kerr stated, highlighting his potential as a playmaker.
As Podziemski prepares for the season, he is aware of the larger picture regarding his role within the team. “When those guys are done, do they feel comfortable saying, ‘BP, here you go, this is your team because we trust you to do the same things we did?’” he reflected. With expectations set high, Podziemski is determined to prove himself as a key player for the Warriors, solidifying his place alongside stars like Curry.
