Andre Iguodala is a legend through and through leaving an indelible mark on the NBA. He was drafted back in 2004 as ninth overall and has never looked back ever since. 19 seasons, with over 1,2oo games in the NBA, is an amazing feat. Not only that but he has also played for the 76ers, Nuggets, Heat, and, most notably, the Warriors. What’s more, he played an important role in Golden State winning four championships. Add another Finals MVP award that he earned back in 2015 and you see that Iguodala had quite the career. However, don’t let it fool you, Iggy’s story is more than just rings!

He’s celebrated for his defensive prowess and leadership. These qualities were instrumental to the Warriors’ success. Iggy shined through in four championships in 2015, 2017, 2018, and 2022, playing a key role in winning the championships. Keeping all this in mind, The Warriors’ decision to retire his No. 9 jersey is a fitting tribute. The Golden State Warriors are honoring Andre Iguodala. They will retire his No. 9 jersey.

Now as the big date nears its arrival, Golden State Warriors shared the video, Iggy has made to share his excitement and gratitude for the honor, on X. In the video, the retired athlete stated, “Dub Nation, February 23rd is the date. Excited, jersey retirement. Just really appreciate all the love and support throughout the years. Look forward to seeing you there.” He calls for the Warriors’ fans as he looks forward to the day of the ceremony to come. This jersey retirement solidifies Iguodala’s legacy and he appreciates the gesture by The Warriors understanding the implication of it as well.

The ceremony will take place on February 23rd. The Warriors will host the Dallas Mavericks that night. This is a huge honor for Iguodala as he joins an exclusive club. Only six other Warriors legends have received this recognition. Joining these legends was a surprise even for the man himself! Although there are voices like Chris Russo who disagree with the Warriors’ decision, Stephen Curry along with Steve Kerr is more than happy for him to receive such honor.

Andre Iguodala, ‘the unsung hero’ of the Golden State Warriors

The Golden State Warriors’ dynasty was built on star power, names like Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Kevin Durant captivated fans. However, they also needed balance, and Warriors’ HC, Steve Kerr found that in Andre Iguodala. Now that the latter’s jersey is being retired, Kerr didn’t shy away from praising the former player. He called the former NBA All-Star, “the unsung hero of that whole era.”

Kerr valued his veteran mentality. Even late in his career, he mentored younger players. Moreover, in his prime, Iggy was a secret weapon, he accepted a bench role willingly, and as such his two-way play was crucial. “Brilliant, brilliant two-way basketball player,” Kerr said, adding that Andre Iguodala also had a “brilliant basketball mind.”

“He helped us win a lot of championships,” Stephen Curry chimed in, echoing Kerr’s sentiment. Iguodala’s impact went beyond statistics, he was the 2015 Finals MVP. His defense of LeBron James was key in helping the Warriors secure the first title of their dynasty. Curry added, “It’s going to be fantastic for the entire organization to welcome my brother back. He helped us win a lot of championships.”

Iguodala’s jersey retirement is a big event. As all eyes will be on the retired athlete even his former teammate, Thompson will be there, but as a Maverick. Overall, whether it’s Iggy’s fans or his former teammates, the anticipation is huge for everyone. Come February 23, Iguodala will also be immortalized among other legends. Do you think his receiving this honor is well deserved? Or do you agree more with Russo’s critique? Share your thoughts in the comments below!