Steve Kerr knew that he needed to make a move with six weeks left to help the Warriors break free from the bonds of mediocrity. It’s time for a new starting lineup and rotations without Kevon Loone for the first time in a very long time.
Informing a seasoned player who led the NBA in offensive rebounds and had appeared in 289 straight games last season that he would be sitting far down the bench causes some distress. It was consoling to know that Looney, a sensible man of good character, would accept the news with grace. Yes, he did. He still does, even after two weeks.
“Here, winning is everything,” Looney stated to NBC Sports Bay Area on Tuesday. Since I’ve been here, everything has been about winning, and I’ve witnessed many individuals who are better than me make compromises. Who would I be, then, to moan or weep and stop upholding the legacy of being a fantastic teammate?
That seems to be my role. I will persist in doing so, and when Steve calls for me to return to the field, I will endeavor to play to the best of my abilities.
With a proud and contented smile that seemed to come from his pals at Invisalign, Looney said this while holding his chin high. just as Kerr and his associates would anticipate.
After making the adjustment, Kerr remarked, “I think Loon has set a tone for us for years regarding unselfishness and commitment to the team,” mentioning Golden State’s strong team dynamic. “He’s essential to that.”
Looney saw a struggling team and was willing to do what was asked, particularly if it benefited the Warriors. After nine seasons in the league, being a member of three championship teams, he realizes personal sacrifice usually is essential to team success.
