Sophomore guard Brandin Podziemski has been in a Golden State Warriors uniform for quite some time, evidenced by the team exercising the third-year option on his rookie deal.

The 19th overall pick of the 2023 first round, and member of the 2023-2024 NBA All-Rookie First Team, has shown himself to be an integral part of the Warriors’ future core.

During his rookie season, he averaged 9.2 points per game, 5.8 rebounds and 3.7 assists on 45% shooting from the field and 38% shooting from beyond the arc. He also played in 74 games and showed durability as he bounced between the starting role and a reserve role as the Warriors discovered Klay Thompson’s final season.

His hard work has paid off and has earned him more and more confidence from the coaching staff, which is no small feat considering how coach Steve Kerr is normally cautious about throwing rookies into the fire.