SAN FRANCISCO — These days, as Andre Iguodala makes his way around the Bay Area, he’s often approached by fans eager to express their admiration for the way he conducted himself during his tenure with the Golden State Warriors.

They commend his determination, his work ethic, and his ability to excel quietly in areas that often go unnoticed. Numerous fans convey how Iguodala’s influence has positively shaped their approach to parenting, underscoring the profound impact he has had on basketball culture both on and off the court.

“I’m accustomed to being approached frequently, but now it feels different since I’m no longer on the court,” Iguodala remarked. “I can distinguish between the genuine fans and those who aren’t so great. The people I interact with in the Bay reflect high values and ethics; thus, 99% of these exchanges are genuinely positive.”
Iguodala added, “You leave those encounters feeling uplifted because it emphasizes that there’s a larger purpose beyond yourself.”
In light of his legacy, the Warriors have announced that Iguodala will become the seventh player in franchise history to have his number retired. His No. 9 jersey will be commemorated alongside legends like Rick Barry (24), Wilt Chamberlain (13), Nate Thurmond (42), Al Attles (16), Chris Mullin (17), and Tom Meschery (14).
The celebration will take place following a game against Dallas on February 23, with former teammate Klay Thompson expected to attend.

Owner Joe Lacob expressed, “Andre will be remembered as one of the smartest, most cunning, and distinct players ever to don a Warriors jersey.”
Iguodala called it a day on his playing career in October 2023, wrapping up a prolific 19-season span that included four championships with the Warriors, as well as earning the NBA Finals MVP title in 2015. Following his retirement announcement, he stepped into the role of acting executive director of the National Basketball Players Association.
At 41 years old, Iguodala was selected as the No. 9 pick in the 2004 NBA Draft out of the University of Arizona, competing in 1,231 games throughout his career. His journey included eight seasons with the Philadelphia 76ers, a season with the Denver Nuggets, six seasons with the Warriors, two years with the Miami Heat, and a return to Golden State for his final two years. He contributed to championship teams in 2015, 2017, 2018, and 2022.
“Andre was the unsung hero of that period,” stated coach Steve Kerr. “Everyone knows the stars like Steph, Klay, and Kevin Durant, but Andre was essential in bringing it all together. He was an exceptional two-way player with a brilliant basketball mind, enabling so much of our strategy on both ends of the court thanks to his intellect and athleticism. Coaching him was truly a pleasure.”
Renowned for his defensive prowess, Iguodala fulfilled various roles throughout his career, offering guidance to teammates as his playing days neared their end, while also providing valuable insights to Kerr.
In a pivotal moment during the 2015 NBA Finals, trailing 2-1 against the Cavaliers, Kerr placed his trust in Iguodala by starting him and assigning him the daunting task of guarding Cleveland star LeBron James.
“A lot of these contributions go unnoticed,” the retired player reflected. “I frequently encounter fans who tell me that I’ve influenced the way they raise their children, especially in understanding the significance of teamwork, discipline, and sacrifice. They often mention that sometimes doing less leads to more, and being prepared for crucial moments is essential.”