The Warriors were looking forward to this December 30 and this meeting against the Blazers. Players, coaches, managers and the whole Chase Center were eager to find Gary Payton IIleft for the Blazers this summer, to give him his championship ring but also and above all to show him all their affection.
“Gary is one of the greatest stories of our team last season. We don’t win the title without him.” recalled Steve Kerr before the meeting. “I’m really delighted to see him tonight, we’ve kept in touch, I have a special affection for him given everything he’s had to go through in his career. »
Before the start of the match, the Warriors paid tribute to Payton on the big screen with a video of about thirty seconds while Draymond Green and the interested party exchanged a long embrace in the middle of the field. The entire Chase Center was on their feet and cheering, drowning out Green’s praise before he presented the ring to his former teammate. Moved and all smiles, Payton then greeted the crowd and the bench of the Warriors.
“It was a really special moment for me” admitted Draymond Green after the meeting. “His career inspires respect. He’s a guy who asked to be a video intern before last season. To see him sign this big contract and especially to see him contribute to the title, I am really honored to have given him his champion ring because it is something that binds us forever. »
Chauncey Billups, coach of the Blazers and champion and MVP of the Finals in 2004, was also delighted for his player. A palpable feeling in all Blazers.
“It’s a validation of his work done last season because he didn’t just watch the team win the title. He played an important role in this quest for the title,” added Billups. “What’s great for him is that all the attention is on him. It’s not like it’s ring night with all the players. Tonight, the whole room will celebrate it. He deserves it, he’s a player who plays with a lot of heart and passion. I am very happy for him. »
Despite his departure, Gary Payton II was at home at the Chase Center. He was also wearing a hoodie from the brand of one of the local photographers, Jordan Jimenezand he spent several minutes before and after the game greeting his former teammates or local celebrities like rapper E-40 but also Chase Center employees, fans, the Warriors staff member and some journalists.
Gary Payton II is no longer a Warrior, but his championship ring and connection to the franchise and the city make him a Warrior for life.
Interview in San Francisco.
