Andre Iguodala: One Last Dance or Eventual Retirement

Andre Iguodala has been relatively ambiguous regarding his NBA future.

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Despite the Golden State Warriors 2023 training camp starting next month, Andre Iguodala has not yet revealed whether he will return for one final season. Last year on his podcast “Point Forward” with former Philadelphia 76ers teammate Evan Turner, Iguodala stated he would play for one final season. However, Iguodala barely got on the court during the 2023 season with various injuries, and the Warriors fell short of an NBA Finals appearance. After the Lakers eliminated the Warriors in the 2023 Western Conference Semis, Iguodala tweeted “No.” That seemed to indicate Iguodala wasn’t going to retire just yet, and considering that there’s been no other announcement on his “Point Forward” podcast, his future is still unclear. 

However, Iguodala recently appeared on Gilbert Arenas’ podcast to discuss a variety of topics, including his playing future. Iguodala claimed that he hasn’t thought about retirement yet and has been too busy this summer to consider a possible last dance. Based on all Iguodala has said following his comments last year and the tumultuous season for the Warriors, he could give it one more shot to see if he can stay healthy and help the Warriors secure their fifth championship in 10 years. But even if Iguodala stays healthy and injury free, his minutes will likely be well-managed and relegated throughout the season. Most importantly he’ll be playing the role of a consummate vet for the young players while helping keep the locker room intact. Head coach Steve Kerr would no doubt give Iguodala minutes if he’s healthy, yet it comes down to how much Iguodala’s body can handle and how much the Warriors might need him on the court for another championship run.

Even if Iguodala decides not to return, his impact on the Warriors has been immeasurable. His leadership, toughness, defense, IQ, and versatility made him the perfect sixth man for the Warriors’ five straight finals appearances. It wouldn’t be surprising if he retires but joins the Warriors coaching staff under Steve Kerr so he can still be around to mentor the young players and keep the team focused. Either way, Iguodala has been a staple in the Warriors organization since his arrival as a top free agent in 2013. He sacrificed his status as a starter and all-star caliber player to come off the bench and help the Warriors compete for championships. He will forever be a legend in the Bay Area (and possibly as a future Hall-of-Famer), so it’s practically a no-brainer that his jersey will be retired by the Warriors after his playing days officially end.