Warriors Back Mike Dunleavy for No. 11 Pick as 2026 Draft Tests His Highest Selection
Updated
Updated · NBC Sports Bay Area · Jun 22
Warriors Back Mike Dunleavy for No. 11 Pick as 2026 Draft Tests His Highest Selection
3 articles · Updated · NBC Sports Bay Area · Jun 22
Summary
No. 11 gives Golden State its highest draft slot under Mike Dunleavy, who said he feels more comfortable picking in a draft he views as strong.
Dunleavy’s case rests largely on 2023: Brandin Podziemski, taken No. 19, ranks near the top of his class in minutes, rebounds and assists, while second-rounder Trayce Jackson-Davis has also delivered strong value.
Later drafts were thinner on first-round capital, but Dunleavy still found rotation help in the second round, including Quinten Post and No. 56 pick Will Richard, even with misses such as Alex Toohey.
The pressure is sharper because the Warriors "need everything"—scoring, shooting, size and perimeter defense—and want a player who can contribute now while also fitting the franchise’s future.