Steve Kerr Backs Jonathan Kuminga After Ejection in Preseason Clash

In a tense preseason matchup on October 25, 2023, between the Golden State Warriors and the Portland Trail Blazers, forward Jonathan Kuminga was ejected after a heated confrontation with an official. The incident occurred late in the first half when Kuminga reacted to what he perceived as a missed call following a drive to the basket.

Kuminga, visibly frustrated, clapped in the referee’s face, an act that led to his immediate ejection without a preceding technical foul. Despite Steve Kerr, the Warriors’ head coach, stepping in to protest the decision, the officials upheld their call. The incident highlighted the challenges players face in maintaining composure, even in preseason games.

Kuminga’s Passion and Performance

Replays from the game provided context for Kuminga’s reaction. During the play, Kris Murray appeared to grasp Kuminga’s right forearm, while Jerami Grant came down across his left wrist, suggesting that a foul could have been called. Kerr later expressed his support for Kuminga’s emotional response, stating, “I don’t mind the ejection at all. I kind of liked it, actually.”

Further elaborating, Kerr indicated that Kuminga’s passion sends a positive message about his potential contribution to the team. “That’s the J.K. that can really help our team,” he added. Before his ejection, Kuminga had accumulated seven points, six rebounds, and four assists, showcasing his ability to impact the game significantly.

Last season, Kuminga averaged 15.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game, shooting at a rate of 45 percent from the field. These figures were just shy of his career highs, and his role with the Warriors has seen fluctuations since the arrival of Jimmy Butler, which has created a dynamic environment for player development within the team.

Team Dynamics and Future Prospects

Despite the challenges, Kuminga remains focused on his development and aspirations of becoming an All-Star. The Warriors, however, view him as a key utility player who can provide depth alongside established stars like Butler, Stephen Curry, and Draymond Green.

“We’ve got powerful leadership in the locker room,” Kerr remarked after re-signing. He emphasized his confidence in Kuminga, stating, “I’ve known J.K. for four years now. He’s not the guy to come in and tear a team down … I’m not worried about anything.” This sentiment reinforces the supportive environment within the Warriors organization.

For Kuminga, Kerr’s backing is a significant motivator. He acknowledged the importance of his coach’s message, stating, “It means a lot. The game has slowed down so much. I’m seeing everything. I’m just playing at my own pace.” This experience not only reflects Kuminga’s growth but also the collaborative spirit that defines the Warriors as they prepare for the upcoming season.