Golden State Warriors: Top 20 Draft Picks in History
By Ryan Viera
4. Nate Thurmond
Nate Thurmond was one of the most dominant centers in the NBA during an era when big men reigned supreme. The 3rd overall selection in the 1963 draft by the San Francisco Warriors, little was known about what kind of impact the 6’11” giant would have on this franchise.
Known as the “Warriors legend & ambassador,” Thurmond was one of the greatest rebounders in the history of the game. Averaging 15 boards per game for his career, and 22 during the 1967-68 season, Thurmond was a monster on the glass. He is also 11th in NBA history for rebounds, pulling in more than Hakeem Olajuwon, Shaquille O’neal, and Charles Barkley, all known for their nose for the ball.
A seven-time All-Star, Thurmond missed out on winning a ring with the 1975 championship squad as he was traded just before the season began. While he was never able to add an NBA title to his résumé, that should not discount the fact that he was one of the greatest NBA players to ever suit up.
Nate passed away in July of 2016, and to commemorate his impact on the franchise, the Warriors have been sporting a number 42 patch on their uniforms all season long, a constant reminder of the incredible value he brought to the organization.
Thurmond is the Warriors franchise leader in minutes played, rebounds, and defensive win shares.