Andre Iguodala is frequently stopped by fans around the Bay Area these days, with many expressing admiration for how he conducted himself during his time with the Golden State Warriors.
Fans praise him for his toughness, determination, and for doing the little things that often went unnoticed. Some even mention how his example has influenced the way they raise their own children, underscoring the impact he’s had both on and off the court.
“I’m used to being recognized, but it still surprises me now that I’m no longer playing basketball,” Iguodala said. “You can easily tell the difference between a good fan and a bad one. I can usually tell right away when someone’s approach is genuine. The people I meet in the Bay Area are really high quality, and I’d say 99% of the interactions are positive and meaningful.”
Andre Iguodala’s interactions with fans often leave him feeling uplifted, as he realizes the positive influence he has had on others. He recognizes that his impact goes beyond just basketball.
Now, Iguodala will give fans even more to celebrate. The Golden State Warriors announced Tuesday that he will become the seventh player in the franchise’s history to have his number retired. He will join an exclusive group that includes Rick Barry (24), Wilt Chamberlain (13), Nate Thurmond (42), Al Attles (16), Chris Mullin (17), and Tom Meschery (14).
The Golden State Warriors will honor Andre Iguodala by retiring his No. 9 jersey after a game against Dallas on February 23. This will give his former teammate, Klay Thompson, the opportunity to be there for the special moment.
Warriors owner Joe Lacob praised Iguodala, calling him “one of the smartest, shrewdest, most unique, and successful players” to ever wear the team’s uniform.
Iguodala retired in October 2023 after a successful 19-season NBA career, which included four championships with Golden State and an NBA Finals MVP award in 2015. Shortly after his retirement, he took on the role of acting executive director of the National Basketball Players Association.
Andre Iguodala, now 41 years old, was selected as the No. 9 pick in the 2004 NBA Draft out of Arizona and played in 1,231 career games. Over the course of his career, he played eight seasons with the Philadelphia 76ers, one with Denver, six with the Golden State Warriors, two with Miami, and then returned to Golden State for his final two seasons. He was part of four NBA championship teams, winning titles in 2015, 2017, 2018, and 2022.
Warriors coach Steve Kerr described Iguodala as the “unsung hero” of their championship era. While players like Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, Kevin Durant, and Draymond Green often received the spotlight, Kerr emphasized that Iguodala played a key role in connecting the team and contributing to both ends of the court with his basketball IQ and athleticism. “He was really fun to coach,” Kerr added.
Iguodala was known for his defensive skills, often taking on various roles. Later in his career, he mentored younger teammates and offered valuable insight to Kerr. One memorable moment came during the 2015 NBA Finals when Kerr moved Iguodala into the starting lineup while trailing 2-1 in the series against the Cleveland Cavaliers. He gave Iguodala the critical task of guarding LeBron James, a move that played a key role in the Warriors’ comeback and victory.
Reflecting on his career, Iguodala noted that many of his contributions went unnoticed, but he often hears from fans who tell him how his approach to the game helped shape their own lives. “They say, ‘You really helped me raise my children in terms of bringing a proper approach, respecting what you do, doing it at a high level, teamwork, discipline, and sacrifice,’” Iguodala shared. “Sometimes less is more, but knowing when to be ready for the big moments.”
