Warriors coach Steve Kerr heaped high praise on youngster Jonathan Kuminga for his performance against the Utah Jazz
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Jonathan Kuminga is certainly one of the most exciting talents in a stacked Golden State Warriors team. He proved that yet again as he racked up 24 points on a staggering 76.9% shooting off the bench against the Utah Jazz. Despite his stellar effort, the Dubs suffered a heart-wrenching 124-123 loss on road to the Jazz. However, Kuminga’s performance did not go unnoticed as he received high praise from Warriors coach Steve Kerr and a few of his teammates.
Jonathan Kuminga was touted to be a key part of the 2022 champions roster this season, but he has only averaged 16.5 minutes per game. In the game against the Jazz, the sophomore sensation was contributing on all ends of the floor. He played some great defense on Jordan Clarkson, which even led to a scuffle between the two. Speaking about Jonathan Kuminga’s development, Kerr said in his post-game press conference:
“JK was tremendous tonight, fantastic. He continued his recent play as far as defense and running the floor and really being solid, but he added to the scoring. Getting to the rim, posting up a couple of times, fantastic defensive play down the stretch when he blocked Clarkson’s shot and got fouled. Ya, JK was magnificent…”
Fellow teammate Klay Thompson was also impressed with what he saw from Jonathan Kuminga against the Jazz. He said: “His defense was incredible on Clarkson on that one possession at the end there and his ability to finish around the rim. JK is a special talent and he showcased that tonight and while he’s young in his career when he keeps things simple it’s impressive to watch and he’s going to add layers to his game as the season goes by, so just an incredible talent.”
Warriors played without their stars Steph Curry and Draymond Green. However, they looked great, until the fourth quarter, where the Jazz just came in and swooped the win on the night.
Jonathan Kuminga is a versatile player, who has a lot to offer on the basketball court. His ability to score and impose his will around the basket, while being an active presence on defense is what makes him special. The sophomore sensation is a coveted player and the Warriors are well aware that he could be a big part of their future.
The like of Steph Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green are all in their 30’s. With all of them reaching the twilight of their careers, the Dubs will need someone to carry the franchise ahead. They signed Jordan Poole and Andrew Wiggins on an extension, which proved that the franchise trusted in them. However, Jonathan Kuminga could be another player that they could have on the roster for several years to come.
He could be used as a trade asset, but the Warriors are a side that have developed talents and Kuminga could be another one. He has all the tools needed to succeed and if he keeps working hard, the player from Republic of Congo could be the next big star of the Bay Area.
