Brandin Podziemski, the Golden State Warriors’ young guard, captivates fans with his hustle, versatility, and growing impact in the 2024-25 NBA season. Known as “Podz,” he combines sharp shooting, tenacious rebounding, and playmaking flair, carving a unique niche among the league’s emerging talents. This article dives deep into his latest statistics, highlights his standout performances, and explores his role in the Warriors’ dynamic system. With fresh data and insights, we unpack why Podziemski’s sophomore season signals a breakout, offering a comprehensive look at his numbers and influence.
Who Is Brandin Podziemski?
Brandin Podziemski, born February 25, 2003, in Greenfield, Wisconsin, brings a compelling story to the NBA. He played college basketball at Illinois and Santa Clara, showcasing his scoring and rebounding prowess. The Warriors selected him 19th overall in the 2023 NBA Draft, impressed by his 43.8% three-point shooting at Santa Clara. Nicknamed “Podz,” he quickly earned a reputation for drawing charges, leading the league in this category during his rookie year. Now, in his second season, Podziemski’s stats reflect his evolution into a key contributor.
His journey from a lightly used freshman at Illinois to a star at Santa Clara highlights his resilience. At Santa Clara, he averaged 19.9 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists, earning All-WCC First Team honors. This foundation fuels his current NBA success, where he blends grit with skill. Understanding his background sets the stage for appreciating his 2024-25 statistical leap.
2024-25 Season Overview: Podziemski’s Statistical Snapshot
Podziemski’s sophomore season showcases significant growth, with his per-game averages reflecting his expanded role. According to Basketball-Reference, he averages 11.7 points, 5.1 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 1.1 steals, and 0.2 blocks across 38 games, playing 24.7 minutes per night. His shooting efficiency stands at 45.4% from the field and 38.5% from three-point range, consistent with his rookie year. These numbers, updated as of January 23, 2025, underline his ability to impact games on both ends.
Moreover, his true shooting percentage, a metric accounting for two-pointers, three-pointers, and free throws, sits at 59.2%, per recent X posts. This efficiency, paired with his rebounding and playmaking, makes him a versatile asset. Compared to his rookie season’s 9.2 points and 5.8 rebounds, Podziemski’s scoring and assist numbers climb, signaling his growing offensive confidence. His minutes also increase, reflecting coach Steve Kerr’s trust.
Standout Performances in the 2024-25 Season
Podziemski delivers several career-defining games this season, showcasing his potential as a clutch performer. On February 5, 2025, he erupts for a career-high 29 points, adding 6 rebounds and 4 assists against the Utah Jazz, though the Warriors fall 131–128. His 6-of-11 three-point shooting in this game highlights his sharpshooting ability. Similarly, on February 23, 2025, he notches his first double-double of the season with 17 points and 13 rebounds in a 126–102 rout of the Dallas Mavericks.
Additionally, Podziemski shines in the playoffs. In Game 4 against the Houston Rockets on April 29, 2025, he scores 26 points, grabs 5 rebounds, dishes 5 assists, and adds 2 steals, shooting 6-of-11 from three. This performance, detailed by NBA.com, underscores his postseason emergence. However, a scoreless Game 2, where illness limits him to 14 minutes, shows his human side. These highs and lows paint a picture of a young player finding consistency.
Shooting Efficiency: A Sharpshooter’s Touch
Podziemski’s shooting remains a cornerstone of his game, with his three-point accuracy drawing comparisons to elite guards. He shoots 38.5% from beyond the arc, a figure that holds steady from his rookie season. His 71% shooting at the rim ranks in the 84th percentile among guards, per X posts, while his 50% short midrange shooting sits in the 72nd percentile. These metrics, from Joe Viray’s April 2025 analysis, highlight his ability to score at all three levels.
Furthermore, his free-throw shooting improves to 76.4% this season, up from 62% early in the year. This progress, noted in fantasy data, suggests growing confidence under pressure. His ability to maintain efficiency despite increased volume—6 three-point attempts per game—sets him apart. For context, only a few guards, like Stephen Curry and Damian Lillard, sustain such efficiency with similar shot diets. Podziemski’s shooting anchors the Warriors’ spacing, opening lanes for teammates.
Rebounding Prowess: A Guard Who Crashes the Boards
One of Podziemski’s defining traits is his rebounding, rare for a 6’4” guard. He averages 5.1 rebounds per game, trailing only Luka Doncic, Josh Hart, and Josh Giddey among guards last season, per RotoWire. This season, he grabs 6.2 rebounds per game over his last 19 contests, per FantasyData. His career-high 13 rebounds against Dallas on February 23, 2025, showcase his nose for the ball.
Additionally, his rebounding translates to transition opportunities, fueling the Warriors’ fast-paced attack. His 8.2 rebounds per game in February 2024, noted by StatMamba on X, led the Warriors, outpacing even Draymond Green. This tenacity stems from his high school days, where he averaged 10 rebounds as a senior. Podziemski’s rebounding gives Golden State an edge, creating second-chance points and disrupting opponents’ flow.
Playmaking and Vision: Evolving as a Facilitator
Podziemski’s 3.4 assists per game reflect his growing role as a playmaker. His vision, honed at Santa Clara, shines in games like his 6-assist performances against the Rockets in April 2025. He averages 3.9 assists over his last 19 games, per FantasyData, showing improved decision-making. His ability to zip half-court passes, noted by NBADraft.net, sets up teammates for easy buckets.
Moreover, his 6.8 assists per game in February 2024, per StatMamba, led the Warriors, highlighting his potential as a lead guard. While not a primary ball-handler, he thrives in secondary playmaking roles, reading defenses and finding cutters. His assist-to-turnover ratio, around 2.8:1, indicates careful ball-handling. As he develops, Podziemski’s playmaking could elevate him into a combo guard role, complementing Curry and Dennis Schroder.
Defensive Impact: Hustle and Charges
Podziemski’s defensive contributions, while less glamorous, significantly impact games. He averages 1.1 steals per game, showcasing quick hands and anticipation. His knack for drawing charges remains unmatched, leading the NBA in total charges drawn over the last two seasons, per a Warriors’ X post. This hustle disrupts opponents’ rhythm and energizes his team.
Furthermore, his 2 steals in Game 4 against Houston demonstrate his postseason intensity. Though not an elite on-ball defender due to average lateral quickness, his 6’5” frame and high basketball IQ help him guard multiple positions. His defensive versatility, paired with his rebounding, makes him a two-way threat. As he gains strength, Podziemski’s defensive ceiling could rise, potentially earning him All-Defensive consideration.
Injury Challenges and Resilience
Injuries test Podziemski’s durability this season, yet he bounces back with grit. An abdominal injury sidelined him for 12 games, from December 28, 2024, to January 23, 2025, per Wikipedia. He returns with 10 points and 4 rebounds against the Chicago Bulls, signaling his readiness. Additionally, a stomach bug limits him in Game 2 against Houston, but he responds with a 26-point masterpiece in Game 4.
Moreover, a broken nose early in the season, noted by RotoWire, doesn’t hinder his availability. His ability to play through ailments, like food poisoning in the playoffs, showcases his toughness. These setbacks, while disruptive, highlight his resilience, a trait evident since his high school days. Podziemski’s quick recoveries ensure he remains a reliable contributor.
Role in the Warriors’ System
Podziemski’s fit in Golden State’s motion offense maximizes his strengths. He often plays alongside Curry, Butler, and Green, benefiting from their gravity. His off-ball movement and spot-up shooting stretch defenses, creating driving lanes for Butler. Kerr frequently uses him as a connector, leveraging his passing and rebounding to maintain offensive flow.
Additionally, his 10 starts this season, per Bleacher Report, show his versatility as a starter or sixth man. His +73 plus/minus over a 10-game stretch last season, per OnBallSteph on X, reflects his positive impact. While Buddy Hield and De’Anthony Melton compete for minutes, Podziemski’s experience with Curry gives him an edge. His role as a hustle-driven, multi-faceted guard aligns perfectly with the Warriors’ identity.
Rising Stars Recognition
Podziemski’s ascent earns him a spot in the 2025 NBA Rising Stars Game, replacing Cason Wallace, per Bleacher Report. Playing for Team T, coached by Tim Hardaway, he showcases his skills in San Francisco during All-Star Weekend. This nod, announced February 8, 2025, validates his sophomore surge. His 9.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.4 assists at the time of selection highlight his all-around game.
Furthermore, his Rising Stars inclusion sparks comparisons to past Warriors like Klay Thompson, who also shone early. The event offers Podziemski a platform to shine, potentially boosting his confidence. His performance in this showcase could foreshadow a larger role in Golden State’s future, especially as the team transitions beyond its veteran core.
Fantasy Basketball Value
Podziemski’s stats make him a fantasy basketball gem, particularly in category leagues. His 11.5 points, 5.1 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 1.1 steals provide multi-category contributions, per Heavy.com. His 24.3 points and 7.3 rebounds over a three-game stretch in April 2025, noted by Heavy.com, showcase his upside. Fantasy managers value his efficiency and rebounding, rare for a guard.
Moreover, his streaming appeal spikes when Curry rests, as seen in his 13.2 points and 6.2 rebounds over 19 games, per FantasyData. However, his inconsistent usage in Golden State’s crowded backcourt limits his reliability, per ESPN’s Jim McCormick. Still, his ability to stuff stat sheets makes him a savvy pickup, especially during playoff pushes.
Areas for Improvement
Despite his strengths, Podziemski faces areas to refine. His 37% field goal percentage early in the season, per SixRingsOfSteel on X, reflects a sophomore slump in shooting consistency. His 18% three-point shooting in November 2024 raises concerns, though he rebounds to 40.8% later. Improving his first step, as noted by NBADraft.net, could help him create separation.
Additionally, his 1.2 turnovers per game, while low, occasionally stem from overzealous passes. Strengthening his frame could enhance his finishing through contact and defensive physicality. As he addresses these, Podziemski’s ceiling as a two-way star grows, potentially elevating him beyond a role player.
Future Outlook: A Star in the Making?
Podziemski’s 2024-25 season positions him as a cornerstone for the Warriors’ future. His $3.69 million team option for 2025-26, per RotoWire, ensures his presence as Golden State transitions. With Curry and Green aging, his versatility could see him ascend to a starting role. His 59.2% true shooting and rebounding prowess suggest All-Star potential if he sustains his trajectory.
Furthermore, his hustle and intangibles, like drawing charges, endear him to fans and coaches. As the Warriors chase another title, Podziemski’s growth alongside Jonathan Kuminga and Trayce Jackson-Davis could redefine the roster. His ability to impact winning, evident in his +7 plus/minus in Game 4 against Houston, bodes well for his legacy.
FAQs About Brandin Podziemski’s 2024-25 Season
What are Brandin Podziemski’s average stats for the 2024-25 NBA season?
Premier League Podziemski averages 11.7 points, 5.1 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 1.1 steals, and 0.2 blocks per game, playing 24.7 minutes across 38 games. His shooting splits include 45.4% from the field, 38.5% from three, and 76.4% from the free-throw line, with a 59.2% true shooting percentage, per Basketball-Reference and X posts.
What was Podziemski’s best game in the 2024-25 season?
The Ascent His standout performance came on February 5, 2025, scoring 29 points with 6 rebounds and 4 assists against the Utah Jazz. In the playoffs, he shines with 26 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, and 2 steals in Game 4 against Houston on April 29, 2025, shooting 6-of-11 from three, per NBA.com.
How does Podziemski contribute defensively?
BMF Podziemski averages 1.1 steals and leads the NBA in charges drawn over the last two seasons, per a Warriors’ X post. His quick hands and high IQ allow him to disrupt plays, while his 6’5” frame helps guard multiple positions, though his lateral quickness needs improvement.
How do injuries affect Podziemski’s season?
Are Shops Open An abdominal injury sidelined him for 12 games from December 28, 2024, to January 23, 2025. A stomach bug limits him to 14 scoreless minutes in Game 2 against Houston, but he rebounds with 26 points in Game 4. A broken nose early in the season doesn’t impact his availability, per RotoWire.
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