Warriors fans are probably still very emotional from the recent loss of the 2016 NBA Finals. The pill was tough to swallow after so many recent successes, particularly the record-breaking 73-9 regular season run. But despite the bitter end, I still think the Warriors are the NBA’s most lovable team, because ultimately it’s not all about the stats. Here are eight reasons why you should still love the Golden State Warriors:
1. Their motto
The Warriors’ motto — Strength in Numbers — can be inspiration for pretty much anyone doing pretty much anything. Their emphasis on teamwork and interdependence is so refreshing in the NBA, and frankly, our society that tends to direct all praise and celebration towards the talent and genius of an individual or a very select few (We’re looking at you, LeBron). The Warriors, even with a player or two that could very well star in a game of "Hero Ball," have chosen to reject this superstar-centric mentality and instead use the collective strengths of all of their players.
2. Their sense of humor
Even as the pressure continues to build, the Warriors never seem to lose their sense of humor or their ability to have fun. They clearly love the game and love each other, and this love has manifested itself in some quirky ways recently. From Andre Iguodala and the rest of the team pranking Festus Ezeli on April Fool’s Day, to the Splash Brothers playing a friendly game of H.O.R.S.E. after practice, to the many prime photobombs that occurred throughout the season, the team was constantly finding new ways to have fun in spite of the intensity, exhaustion and criticism that NBA players face.
3. Their style of play
Few people would deny that Warriors basketball is an incredible spectacle to watch. Fans have always known basketball to be one of the most engaging, action-packed sports, but the Warriors have really taken the game to a new level of excitement. With their fast pace, their impeccable ball movement, and most of all, their insane shooting, it can be hard to turn the TV off. In fact, there’s a whole group of east coasters known as Warriors “zombie fans” because they stay up so late watching games being televised from California.
4. Their superstar…
Speaking of insane shooting! I’d be remiss to write an article about the Warriors without dedicating a portion of it to Steph Curry. Talk all you want about his lackluster performance in the Finals, the Baby-Faced Assassin is still the most beloved player in the NBA, and here’s why: he’s actually a nice guy. People are just as in love with his out-of-this-world three-pointers and his incredible ball-handling skills as they are with his piety and his calm, mature lifestyle.
5. …and his family
People also love Steph because they love his family. By now, his wife and daughters have honestly charmed the nation just as much as he has. We've seen Ayesha prove who's the real Chef Curry, we've seen Riley take over press conferences and we've seen adorable pictures of Ryan on Instagram. I don’t think anyone can deny that they really are all of our #goals. They support each other through ups and downs, they spend quality time together and they love to goof off with each other. Also, they’re just plain adorable.
6. Their personalities
The Curry’s aren’t the only big personalities that represent the Warriors franchise, though. When you look at the team as a whole, what you see in front of you is a truly charismatic, unforgettable group of guys. Take Steve Kerr, whose calm, level-headed manner in interviews belies the unmatched energy, emotion and passion he exudes on the sidelines (see: clipboard breakage in Game one of the Finals). Andre Iguodala, with his goofy smile and hilarious antics during games, is another great example of a simply memorable guy. And then there’s Draymond Green, obviously, who is a literal firecracker of a human being.
7. Their city
Not only are the Warriors one of the most exciting teams in basketball, but they also play in one of the most exciting places in the country. The Bay Area, like the Warriors, brings a lot of different things to the table: the innovation of Silicon Valley, the diversity of San Francisco, and, of course, the grit of Oakland. Even people who aren’t familiar with the Bay Area have to admire its energetic connection with Warriors, and the Warriors’ reciprocal love for their home turf. Who wouldn’t get excited in Oracle Arena (also known as “Roaracle”), widely considered the loudest stadium in the NBA? And how about that “Tell Me When to Go” commercial for Beats by Dre?! Warriors players partnering with E-40, a Bay Area legend, clearly shows their deep commitment to the place they play in.
8. Their humility
While all these aspects of the Warriors franchise are incredible, I think it’s ultimately their humility that makes them such a lovable team. Nobody likes to hear from braggers or from sore losers, and now that the current Warriors have both won a championship and lost one, they’ve proven that they are neither. They’ve demonstrated how to win and how to lose with grace. They’ve stayed true to themselves throughout it all. They’ve taught us about more than basketball, but about the power of teamwork, the importance of fun and the meaning of humility.
Go Dubs!
