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Golden State Warriors sign former first-round pick on two-way deal

By Rohan Borges

HOUSTON, TEXAS - MARCH 20: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors attempts a shot over Usman Garuba #16 of the Houston Rockets during the game at Toyota Center on March 20, 2023 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alex Bierens de Haan/Getty Images)
HOUSTON, TEXAS - MARCH 20: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors attempts a shot over Usman Garuba #16 of the Houston Rockets during the game at Toyota Center on March 20, 2023 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alex Bierens de Haan/Getty Images) /
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As the Golden State Warriors look to round out their roster ahead of training camp, solidifying frontcourt depth has clearly been a point of emphasis. They’ve now filled one of their vacant positions, adding a talented young big to a two-way contract.

According to Shams Charania and Anthony Slater of The Athletic, The Warriors have signed former first-round pick Usman Garuba to a two-way contract.

Usman Garuba offers much-needed youth and upside for the Golden State Warriors at the center position.

Drafted 21st overall in 2021 by the Houston Rockets, Garuba averaged 3.0 points and 4.1 rebounds in 13 minutes per contest last year, shooting 47.5% from the field and 36.7% from behind the arc.

While he could never permanently crack the Rockets rotation, he made the most of his minutes in playing with high energy and crashing the glass hard at both ends. After spending his first two seasons in Houston, the Spanish international was shipped to the Atlanta Hawks as part of a five-team trade, but was immediately re-routed to the Oklahoma City Thunder in a separate deal. The 21-year-old was waived by the Thunder last month, and has been a free agent since.

Garuba suited up for Spain’s international squad during this year’s FIBA World Cup, averaging 8.2 points and 4.0 rebounds across five games. It’s unlikely that Garuba sees enough action to make a real impact for the Warriors this year, but the team’s G-League affiliate in Santa Cruz boasts an impressive developmental track record, which could pay dividends for the big man’s progressions.

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The Warriors still have two main roster spots available and are expected to utilize one prior to opening night tip-off on October 24. They have reportedly met with a host of free agents in recent times, and also plan to meet with eight-time All-Star Dwight Howard next week.

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