The End of an Era: The Golden State Warriors Dynasty Nears its Conclusion
Throughout NBA history, few teams have drawn attention and dominated on the court like the Golden State Warriors. Their unforgettable rise from underdogs to champions defined an era and changed basketball as a whole, yet all dynasties must eventually fall. As the 2024 season unfolds, it becomes increasingly clear that the Warriors’ era of dominance is coming to an end, signaling the need for a new chapter for the franchise.
The dynasty, marked by four NBA championships and a record breaking 73-9 season in 2016, dominated the league for years. However, as with any dynasty, time takes its toll. Injuries have plagued the Warriors in recent years and the departure of veterans have left a void that has proved to be too much to overcome. The rest of the NBA have also adjusted their style of play, mimicking what made the Warriors so special.
The Warriors changed the way basketball is played. In the 2011-2012 season, the league-average three-pointers attempted was 18.4. In the 2023-2024 season, that number has nearly doubled, sitting at an all time high of 35.4. There is no doubt that the style of play from the Warriors, led by Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and the coaching style of Steve Kerr has single-handedly changed the game.
As the rest of the NBA has caught up with the Warriors, questions rise for the future of Golden State. Is it time for a rebuild? As Klay Thompson goes into free agency next season, will the Warriors resign him? Or is it finally time to put the dynasty in the past and look into the future?