Kevon Looney, a name that might not always grab the headlines, has quietly become one of the most crucial players for the Golden State Warriors. Known for his defensive prowess, rebounding ability, and high basketball IQ, Looney has earned a vital role on a championship-contending team. While his contributions often fly under the radar, his value to the Warriors—especially during their most successful seasons—cannot be overstated.

In this article, we will take a closer look at Kevon Looney’s basketball journey, his evolution into a key piece for the Warriors, and the impact he’s had on the team’s success, particularly in their multiple NBA championships.

Early Life and College Career

Kevon Looney was born on February 6, 1996, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where he attended Alexander Hamilton High School. Even from a young age, Looney exhibited impressive athletic ability, which quickly made him one of the top basketball recruits in the state. He was highly sought after by college programs due to his versatile game and strong presence on the court.

Looney chose to attend UCLA, where he played one season for the Bruins before declaring for the NBA Draft in 2015. At UCLA, Looney was known for his rebounding and his ability to stretch the floor. He averaged 11.6 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game in his lone season with the Bruins, showcasing a well-rounded skill set that allowed him to impact the game on both ends of the floor.

Despite his impressive college numbers, Looney wasn’t considered a top prospect and entered the 2015 NBA Draft with questions surrounding his game, particularly his ability to translate his college success into the professional ranks. He was selected by the Golden State Warriors with the 30th overall pick, marking the beginning of his NBA career.

Struggles and Development

Looney’s first few seasons in the NBA were marked by significant struggles, largely due to injuries. Early on, he dealt with hip and groin issues that hindered his development and kept him off the court for significant stretches of time. In fact, during his rookie season, Looney played only 17 games, and his future with the Warriors was uncertain. Many wondered if he would ever live up to his potential.

However, Looney’s perseverance and commitment to improving his game began to pay off. Over the next few seasons, he worked diligently on his body and game, particularly on the defensive end, where the Warriors saw an opportunity for him to contribute.

Looney’s defense became one of his most valuable assets. Known for his ability to switch on pick-and-rolls and guard multiple positions, Looney proved to be a key defensive player for the Warriors. He developed into a solid role player who could be trusted to guard opponents’ big men while also providing crucial minutes as a backup center.

Kevon Looney’s Role in the Warriors’ Championships

Looney’s breakthrough moment came during the Warriors’ 2017-2018 championship run, where he established himself as one of the team’s most reliable players, especially in the postseason. The Warriors had a loaded roster, featuring stars like Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green, but it was Looney’s unassuming yet effective style of play that stood out when the Warriors needed him the most.

In the 2018 NBA Finals, Looney became a key contributor to the Warriors’ victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers. Despite playing fewer minutes than some of the team’s other stars, Looney made a huge impact, particularly on the boards and in defending the rim. His ability to grab offensive rebounds, block shots, and provide a solid presence in the paint helped the Warriors secure the title. Looney’s contributions during this run earned him the admiration of Warriors fans, as his role became even more apparent in the team’s success.

Throughout the Warriors’ championship years, Looney’s unselfish play, defense, and rebounding ability made him a steady presence in their rotations. His willingness to accept a limited role, despite playing for a star-studded roster, showcased his maturity and understanding of what the team needed to win. Unlike many young players, Looney was not seeking the spotlight but instead focused on doing the little things that made the Warriors successful—grabbing rebounds, setting screens, defending multiple positions, and being an overall reliable presence on both ends of the floor.

Injury Struggles and Resilience

Looney’s career has been marked by injuries, and it’s been a constant struggle to stay healthy. After the 2018 championship, Looney battled injuries during the 2019-2020 season, including a hip injury that kept him sidelined for a significant period. His resilience in bouncing back from these setbacks has become one of the defining aspects of his career. Looney’s commitment to rehabbing and staying in top shape helped him reclaim his role as an essential part of the Warriors’ frontcourt rotation.

In the 2021-2022 season, Looney was healthy and once again made his presence felt, especially as the Warriors made their way back to the NBA Finals after a two-year absence from championship contention. He was instrumental in the Warriors’ success, playing major minutes in the Finals, particularly as a rebounder and screen-setter. His defense on the boards was key, especially in crucial moments when the Warriors needed to secure possessions or prevent second-chance opportunities for their opponents.

Looney’s Playing Style and Strengths

Looney’s playing style is rooted in his defense and his ability to do the dirty work. He is not known for flashy scoring or highlight-reel plays, but his intelligence and skill on the defensive end are invaluable to his team. His ability to switch on pick-and-rolls, defend without fouling, and contest shots make him a versatile defender, especially in the modern NBA where positionless basketball is a key feature of team success.

Looney is also a skilled rebounder, particularly on the offensive glass, where his timing and effort allow him to secure key extra possessions for the Warriors. His ability to consistently grab boards in crucial situations has made him a dependable presence in the Warriors’ rotation. Additionally, his basketball IQ allows him to be an excellent passer in the Warriors’ system, especially when facilitating the ball in high-post situations.

Offensively, Looney has not been a primary scorer, but his role as a screener and lob finisher has made him effective in the Warriors’ offensive schemes. He understands his role and is content to focus on setting hard screens for his teammates, grabbing rebounds, and finishing simple opportunities around the basket.

Leadership and Future

While Looney may not be the most vocal leader in the Warriors’ locker room, his actions on the court speak volumes. His consistency, reliability, and work ethic have made him a respected figure in the Warriors’ organization. As the team has evolved over the years, Looney’s ability to stay healthy and contribute in crucial moments has allowed him to solidify his place as one of the team’s most valuable players.

Looking forward, Kevon Looney’s future with the Warriors seems secure. As the team continues to compete for championships, Looney’s defensive versatility and rebounding ability will remain vital to their success. Even though the Warriors’ core of Curry, Thompson, and Green has aged, Looney’s role as a steady presence on the team gives them an edge as they seek to remain championship contenders in the coming years.

Looney’s future may not be filled with All-Star appearances or individual accolades, but his impact on the Warriors’ success will not be forgotten. As an integral part of the team’s recent championships, Looney’s contributions will continue to be felt as long as the Warriors continue their quest for more titles.

Conclusion

Kevon Looney may not be the most celebrated player on the Golden State Warriors, but he is certainly one of their most indispensable. His defense, rebounding, and unselfish play have earned him the respect of his teammates, coaches, and fans alike. As the Warriors continue to chase championships, Looney will remain a key contributor to their success. His journey—from a highly-touted rookie to a vital championship player—proves that sometimes, the most valuable players are those who do the little things that often go unnoticed.