Cory Joseph taking a mentor role with Warriors rookie
Cory Joseph joined the Golden State Warriors earlier this summer. The veteran guard will be a high-level backup to Steph Curry and Chris Paul. However, it would also appear Joseph has been taking on extra responsibility in the locker room by working with rookie guard Brandin Podziemski.
Joseph, 32, entered the NBA in 2011, having spent one season playing for The University of Texas. As a one-and-done prospect, Joseph understands the difficulties of adjusting to the NBA game. The veteran guard is now looking to help Podziemski make those same adjustments. During a recent post-practice media session, Kerr shared his thoughts on Joseph’s veteran leadership role.
“Cory’s just a great human being, a great teammate,” Kerr said. “He’s been through what Brandin has gone through already. As a rookie in San Antonio, one year college, he had a lot to learn. That was a great place to go, to be coached by Pop, play with that group. He can recount those experiences to Brandin and Brandin can relate to that.”
Podziemski could gatecrash the Warriors rotation in the upcoming season, especially if he can provide some of the energy and hustle lost by Donte DiVincenzo. Having Joseph available to bounce ideas off and to help keep him grounded will be a big boost to Podziemski’s chances of having an impressive rookie season.
Of course, Joseph will also aim to impress during the upcoming schedule, as his selfless style of basketball and veteran approach to the game fits directly into the system the Warriors are looking to run this year. It will be interesting to see how much playing time Joseph is afforded in the coming months.
