On Sunday, the Golden State Warriors honored one of their most pivotal players, Andre Iguodala, by retiring his No. 9 jersey in a beautiful ceremony at the Chase Center. The event took place during and following the Warriors’ 126-102 victory over the Dallas Mavericks, and it was a fitting tribute to a player who played a crucial role in the team’s success over the past decade.
IGUODALA’S NO. 9 HEADS TO THE RAFTERS 🙌
Congrats, @andre 👏 pic.twitter.com/tgUXcaYRqX
— NBA (@NBA) February 24, 2025
Iguodala joined the Warriors in 2013, and his arrival marked the beginning of a new era for the franchise. Known for his defensive prowess and veteran leadership, Iguodala quickly became an integral part of the team. His contributions were instrumental in the Warriors’ four NBA championships in 2015, 2017, 2018, and 2022. He was named the NBA Finals MVP in 2015 for his outstanding performance against LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers.
During the ceremony, Iguodala expressed his gratitude to the Warriors organization, his teammates, and the fans.
“It’s been a wild journey, but it’s been a beautiful blessing,” Iguodala said in his speech.
Andre Iguodala’s full jersey retirement speech ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/oq0csKHbSZ
— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) February 24, 2025
He emphasized that the honor was not just about him but about everyone who had supported him throughout his career.
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr and star player Stephen Curry also spoke during the ceremony, highlighting Iguodala’s impact on the team.
“You sacrificed ego for excellence,” Curry said,
acknowledging Iguodala’s willingness to take on a bench role to help the team succeed. Kerr added,
“He wanted to join what was happening because he saw how special it was,”
referring to Iguodala’s decision to join the Warriors despite other offers.
Iguodala’s jersey retirement is a testament to his selflessness, leadership, and dedication to the game. He joins an elite group of Warriors legends whose numbers have been retired, including Rick Barry, Wilt Chamberlain, and Chris Mullin. His Hampton 5 teammates Klay Thompson, Draymond Green, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry will definitely join Iguodala and the other legends on the rafters sooner than later.
