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An Open Letter to Jim Barnett

By Carlos Murillo

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Dear Jim,

I think I speak for all Warriors fans when I say “thank you.” You truly are a special part of the Golden State Warriors community and you deserve this championship just as much as the players do.

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For 30 years, you’ve been the voice of the Golden State Warriors. For 30 years, you’ve been the Mozart playing in the background of chaos and anarchy. For 30 years, you’ve been a constant in the lives of Warriors fans when the team itself featured much turnover.

You’re more than just a broadcaster and that’s what makes you so beloved. You’re a teacher. You’ve taught the game of basketball to generations of fans. I’m 20 years old. Growing up, I learned so much about basketball concepts, the intricacies of the NBA, and the history of the game. I truly fell in love with Warriors basketball during the “We Believe” run in 2006-07. You played as much a role in that as Baron Davis or Jason Richardson did.

I’m going to be completely honest right now, Jim. I’ve stolen from you. I have plagiarized the “Book of Barnett.” Every time you say something smart–which happens a lot–I bring it to the classroom or the cafeteria the next day and share it with friends. The way you view and speak of the game has resonated with Warriors fans. You present the game so beautifully and so simply that Warriors fans have adopted your thought process. At least I have. I can see your influence in my analysis and writing.

After a long day at school or work, there are few things more comforting than tuning into the Warriors game and listening to you call the game. You bring a beautiful combination of stability and spontaneity to the table that is refreshing. Your enthusiasm is exciting, your wisdom is incredible, and your love of the game is sincere.

For example, one of my favorite stories arises whenever the Warriors visit the New York Knicks. It seems as if it’s told every year and I love it every single time. You tell rookies or new players that the Barnett that is hanging in the rafters of Madison Square Garden refers to you. Of course, that Barnett is two time champion Dick Barnett. That story will never get old.

I recently wrote a piece about how happy I am for Shaun Livingston because of everything that he’s been through. You’re right behind him, Jim. Seeing that selfie you posted on Twitter with the championship hat is truly heartwarming. You deserve it. The 1,000 retweets and 2,000 favorites exemplify exactly what you mean to Golden State fans young and old.

When I read that you weren’t allowed to visit practice under the previous coach, I was shocked and upset. You have decades of knowledge and wisdom to pass on to the young players. Players in the past have always seemed to connect with you so I couldn’t understand it. When I read that you weren’t going to return, I was heartbroken. Every final buzzer was one step closer to losing someone who felt like family. Whatever the situation was, I’m glad it changed. The #KeepJim movement on social media is the perfect example of what you mean to Warriors fans: everything.

I’m glad that you were a part of the best season in Golden State Warriors history. You’ve dedicated so much to this organization, this fan base, and this region and it was time that you were rewarded. Your reaction during Klay Thompson‘s historic 37 point quarter was priceless. You were a fan, just like the rest of us.

Thank you, Jim. Quite frankly (*wink wink*), you are the best. It’s a pleasure and an honor being able to listen to you night in, night out. My word (*wink wink*) , it’s been great! You’re a teacher and a positive figure. You are as much a part of Warriors basketball as your mustache is a part of your face. This elusive championship is for you. You deserve it.

I can’t wait to tune in next season and listen to you talk about the defending World Champion Golden State Warriors.

Sincerely,

Warriors fans everywhere

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