Former Warriors guard Gary Payton II finally breaks his silence on leaving the Bay Area to join forces with Damian Lillard in Portland.
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Dub Nation has expressed its silent disapproval of Bob Myers and co’s decision to part ways with Gary Payton II. The 6″3′ guard played a crucial role in catapulting Golden State to the top of the NBA heap, who revived their dynasty, winning their 4th title in 8-years.
GP2 accounts for one of the most inspiring journeys in recent times. From being passed on from one team to another to playing in the G-league, the Young Glove didn’t have it easy. Payton had even thought of switching careers to a video coordinator for the Warriors.
Surprisingly, GP2 was waived off by Golden State initially but would find his way back, scraping through the 15-man roster. The front office’s decision was a blessing in disguise as Payton turned out to have a breakthrough season, putting his elite athleticism and defense on display.
Payton would end his fairytale season, capping it with an NBA ring. Unfortunately, the Young Glove and Warriors failed to reach an agreement on the former’s contract, resulting in GP2 signing a 3-year $28M deal with the Trail Blazers.
NBA Twitter reacts to Gary Payton II’s cryptic tweet post leaving the Warriors.
According to reports, several people in the Warriors organization were “stung” by the front office’s decision to let Payton sign with the Blazers. The former G-League DPOY played an integral part of the Dubs’ title run despite missing time due to an elbow fracture in the semi-finals.
With constant speculations regarding the reason behind GP2 leaving the Bay Area, the former Warriors guard finally broke his silence in a tweet, without taking any names.
An emotional farewell for Dub Nation, who wish nothing but the best for GP2 as he embarks on a new chapter in his career.
