The Golden State Warriors have officially announced Al Horford as their latest signature for next season.
This represents a major acquisition as Horford takes over the Warriors’ starting center position.
NBA analysts praised the move, with Bill Simmons calling Horford an upgrade, while Dalton Johnson suggests that the former Boston Celtics center can break the Warriors’ three-point record for big guys.
Horford also brings veteran leadership to young players like Quinten Post in locker rooms and mentorship opportunities.
Horford made an interesting gesture, intentional or not, when choosing his jersey number.
The 38-year-old, 38, chose the number 20, which he wore with the Warriors during the 2006-07 season.
Horford and Roberson played together for the Florida Gators in 2004-05, when Horford was a junior and Roberson was senior.
Their partnership showed promise despite not meeting championship expectations.
Roberson expressed confidence in the team’s potential with Horford and Joakim Noah joining the roster.
“A lot of people count Florida, and that’s fine for us,” Roberson said at the time.
“We are ready to shock some people when new people come to (Al) Horford and (Joakim) Noah along with those who have returned.
The Gators only reached 32 rounds that season and did not reach Roberson’s predictions.
Roberson entered the NBA as an undrafted player since that season, joining the Warriors in his second year, averaging 5.6 points in 20 appearances.
His NBA career proved to be short compared to the sustained excellence of his former teammates.
Horford joined the NBA the following year and was selected third overall by Atlanta Hawks.
His career includes one championship and five All-Star selections, showing sustained excellence for nearly 20 years.
Next season, the Warriors will mark Horford’s 19th NBA campaign, showing his longevity and adaptability to the modern game.
His sustained success has been praised by Hall of Fame Dwight Howard.