Brandin Podziemski

Home, as usual, to one of the NBA’s fastest-paced, most team-oriented styles, Chase Center may not have a quote-unquote “best seat in the house,” once the Golden State Warriors settle into their groove. In creating one of the new NBA campaign’s most magical highlights right in front of the fans, though, Brandin Podziemski may’ve offered up a contender on November 15, 2024. Seldom far from the top in any hustle-based statistic recorded, Podziemski showcases his patented selflessness and IQ, hustling to track down a teammate’s swipe with the sideline’s out-of-bounds line threatening to leave his ambition null-and-void. Unintentionally offering a tribute to core strength enthusiasts everywhere, Podziemski — whirling a possession-saving steal-and-dime over his torso at once — provides a front row seat to brilliance as the pass, absurdly, ends up in perfect position for a teammate’s fastbreak jam. Podziemski’s play was a wave Golden State rode to NBA Cup victory No. 2; in outworking the Memphis Grizzlies, the second-year guard offered 11 points (on three-of-six), seven rebounds, five assists, one steal, and a 3-pointer.