In a move that has electrified the entire basketball world, the Golden State Warriors have officially welcomed back one of their most iconic legends—Rick Barry—this time not as a player, but as a key member of the coaching staff. The announcement was made this morning at a packed press conference held at Chase Center, where Warriors executives, former teammates, and fans gathered to witness the emotional and unexpected reunion.
A True Legend Returns Home
Rick Barry, the Hall of Fame small forward widely regarded as one of the most prolific scorers and versatile all-around players in basketball history, is set to take on a strategic advisory and player development coaching role with the Warriors. This marks Barry’s first formal coaching position with the franchise he famously led to the 1975 NBA Championship, ending a 20-year title drought at the time.
Barry, now 81, brings a wealth of knowledge, old-school discipline, and a deep passion for the game. “Basketball has always been in my blood,” he said during the announcement. “To come back to the Warriors in this capacity, at this stage of my life, feels like coming full circle. I’m not here to relive the past—I’m here to help shape the future.”
A Career Like No Other
Rick Barry’s storied career spans multiple eras and leagues—an NCAA standout with the University of Miami, a trailblazer in the ABA, and a dominant force in the NBA. Known for his signature underhand free throws and silky scoring touch, Barry averaged 24.8 points per game over his combined ABA/NBA career. He remains the only player to lead the NCAA, ABA, and NBA in scoring during different seasons—a record that may never be matched.
“Rick is more than just a Hall of Famer,” said Warriors GM Mike Dunleavy Jr. “He’s a visionary mind and someone who truly understands every inch of the court. This is a major win for our organization, especially for our younger players who will have the opportunity to learn from one of the best to ever play the game.”
Warriors Community Reacts With Joy
Fans and former players alike have taken to social media and the airwaves to express their excitement over the news. Warriors legend Chris Mullin called it “one of the most inspiring reunions in modern NBA history,” while current star Stephen Curry posted, “Goat returns to the Bay. Let’s get to work, Rick!”
Local fan Maria Santos summed it up best: “This is the best news we could hope for. Rick Barry is the soul of Golden State basketball, and seeing him back in blue and gold is a dream come true.”
What’s Next?
Barry is expected to begin working immediately with the Warriors’ Summer League staff and will play a prominent role in preparing the team for the upcoming 2025–26 NBA season. His primary focus will be mentoring young players, especially those on two-way and developmental contracts, and serving as a cultural bridge to the championship roots of the franchise.
As the Warriors continue to retool their roster and usher in a new era, the return of Rick Barry sends a powerful message: greatness never fades—it just finds new ways to lead.
