Jonathan Kuminga's Five-Word Statement Will Ease Warriors Fans' Fears

After a tumultuous offseason that was filled with back-and-forth contract negotiations, Jonathan Kuminga finally took the podium at his introduction press conference.

Fresh off signing a two-year, $46.5 million deal that came down to the deadline, Kuminga has made a few things very clear: his priorities as a player align with what the team wants to do.

Steve Kerr said Jonathan Kuminga is not the kind of guy “to come in and tear a team down.”

Kerr: “Jimmy is an alpha. Steph and Draymond are alphas. They run that locker room. I’m not worried about anything.” pic.twitter.com/mOVPRmxjvQ
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) October 1, 2025

When asked about "betting on himself" with the new deal, Kuminga shpaed his comments to conform to a team-friendly aspect.

"Betting on myself, that is helping us win a championship," he said. "I think that's our goal and that's how we're all looking at it."

Kuminga Sends a Five-Word Message

"I'm excited to be here," Kuminga exclaimed when talking about the negotiations that went on in the offseason.

"I'm excited to be here."

Jonathan Kuminga details his mindset after signing a new Warriors contract pic.twitter.com/bqTIqvtHJM
— Warriors on NBCS (@NBCSWarriors) October 2, 2025

The team-first mentality that Kuminga exuded represents a significant shift from the offseason drama that saw his agent publicly criticize head coach Steve Kerr.

Kuminga appeared eager to move past the negotiations over the summer and focus on what he can bring to the floor around Jimmy Butler, Stephen Curry, and Draymond Green.

What Can Kuminga Change This Season?

One of the most encouraging quotes from Kuminga during his press conference was his flexibility regarding his role on the Warriors' new look roster.

After many subtle hints and direct quotes expressing his frustration about limited offensive opportunities over the years, he downplayed any desire for more touches and highlighted his willingness to just help the team in any way possible.

"Being involved on both sides, and if it's on defense and it's 'Go guard the best player,' or if it's 'We need you to score,'" Kuminga explained. "I feel like that's what I'm looking forward to."

Jonathan Kuminga on his role: “Being involved in both sides. Finds a way to impact. If it’s on defense, an assignment, just go guard the best player.”

“I’ve seen certain things where people think I only think about offense. I’m always going to get better on both ends.” pic.twitter.com/pEQbVgwrxE
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) October 2, 2025

There is no doubt that the former seventh overall pick is athletically gifted, and his size gives Golden State the versatile wing defender they've desperately needed.

His untapped potential at only 22 years old makes him a massive wild card for the Warriors in a loaded Western Conference, but maybe a shift in mentality and maturity could be the biggest benefit this season.

Despite inconsistent minutes, Kuminga averaged 15.3 points per game in both the regular season and postseason, which suggests that there could be even more production if he embraces a new role.

Kuminga on people who question if he’s committed to being with the Warriors after the way contract negotiations went:

“I feel like a lot of fans get in their feelings. And it’s mostly not the ones that actually be at the games. It’s the ones that just be at home on social media.… pic.twitter.com/3RvyDfGJA5
— 95.7 The Game (@957thegame) October 2, 2025

In any case, it seems Kuminga is motivated to turn a new leaf.

“I need to mark my name as somebody who helped this team win a championship,” Kuminga said. “I think that would be beautiful.”

For Warriors fans that spent the summer wondering about their young forward's future, those words should be reassuring.

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NBA Fans React To Jonathan Kuminga Re-Signing With Golden State Warriors

Kuminga Sends a Five-Word Message

What Can Kuminga Change This Season?

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