Rising from the Ashes: The Resurgence of the Golden State Warriors in NBA 2022

Jack Mbabuike
3 min readJul 21, 2023

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In the fast-paced world of the NBA, teams often experience ebbs and flows, and franchises’ fortunes can change dramatically from one season to the next. The 2022 NBA season witnessed one of the most remarkable turnarounds in recent memory, as the Golden State Warriors, a team once at the pinnacle of success, found themselves on a path to resurgence. In this article, we explore the factors contributing to the Golden State Warrior’s return and examine how they recaptured their championship-calibre form.

A Legacy of Dominance

The Golden State Warriors entered the 2022 season with a storied legacy. In the not-so-distant past, they were the envy of the league, having secured multiple NBA championships and redefined the game with their revolutionary small-ball style of play. Led by sharpshooting duo Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson, along with Draymond Green’s defensive prowess, the Warriors’ “Splash Brothers” era had left an indelible mark on the league.

However, their triumphs were not without obstacles. Injuries and roster changes tested their resilience, and they faced fierce competition from other rising teams in the league. As a result, they had experienced a decline in the previous seasons, missing out on playoff appearances, a stark contrast to their dominant past.

The Rise of the Young Talent

One of the key elements in the Warriors’ resurgence was the emergence of young talent. James Wiseman, a highly-touted rookie centre, showcased immense potential, providing a much-needed presence in the paint. His athleticism and shot-blocking ability added a new dimension to the team’s defence and gave them a promising long-term asset.

Furthermore, the Warriors’ front office made shrewd draft picks and acquisitions, adding depth and versatility to their roster. These young players brought fresh energy and enthusiasm, blending seamlessly with the established veterans. The team’s ability to develop and integrate young talent into their system significantly affected their turnaround.

The Return of the Splash Brothers

Injuries had plagued the Warriors in the previous seasons, and none were more impactful than those Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson suffered. However, in 2022, the “Splash Brothers” reunited on the court, sending a wave of excitement and optimism throughout the Warriors’ fanbase.

Stephen Curry, renowned for his jaw-dropping three-point shooting and electrifying playmaking, returned to peak form, often putting on scoring displays reminiscent of his MVP seasons. Klay Thompson, known for his lights-out shooting and tenacious defence, added an extra dimension to the team’s offence. The duo’s comeback instilled fear in opposing teams and reestablished the Warriors as a formidable force in the league.

A Coach’s Vision

Behind every successful team lies a visionary coach; the Warriors were no exception. Steve Kerr, who had previously led the team to multiple championships, proved instrumental in orchestrating their resurgence. Kerr’s coaching philosophy emphasized ball movement, selfless play, and a team-first mentality — principles that aligned perfectly with the Warriors’ style of play.

Kerr’s ability to adapt his coaching to his players’ strengths and integrate new tactics into their system revitalized the team’s approach. He also nurtured a culture of accountability and trust within the squad, ensuring each player had a defined role and responsibility on the court. This cohesive approach contributed significantly to the Warriors’ success in the 2022 season.

The Golden State Warriors resurgence in the 2022 NBA season was a testament to the team’s resilience, adaptability, and commitment to excellence. Combining the return of their star players, the rise of young talent, and the strategic brilliance of their coach, the Warriors once again rose to the league’s upper echelons.

The 2022 season will be remembered as a memorable chapter in the Warriors’ history. With their core intact and promising young players rising, they appear poised to remain formidable in the NBA for years. As fans, pundits, and competitors eagerly anticipate the next season, the Warrior’s resurgence serves as a reminder of the ever-changing landscape of the NBA, where triumph and adversity are mere steps toward greatness.

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Jack Mbabuike
Jack Mbabuike

Written by Jack Mbabuike

Orthopedic pain management is a specialty of Dr. Jack Mbabuike, a physician who serves the greater New York City area.

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