Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr has always been known for his keen eye for talent and player development. Heading into the upcoming NBA season, one player who has caught his attention is Trayce Jackson-Davis. As Jackson-Davis prepares for his sophomore season, Kerr has been vocal about the strides the young forward has made, particularly highlighting his physical presence on the court and his overall growth. Reflecting on Jackson-Davis’ progress, Kerr recently shared, “When he sprints the floor, you can feel it,” emphasizing the impact of the forward’s intensity and athleticism on the game.
Trayce Jackson-Davis, a standout from Indiana University, was selected by the Warriors in the 2023 NBA Draft. Known for his physicality, rebounding prowess, and high basketball IQ, he brought the attributes that made him a force in college basketball to the NBA. While his rookie season was a learning curve, Jackson-Davis managed to carve out a role as a valuable contributor in the Warriors’ rotation. He averaged solid numbers, particularly in games where his defensive presence and rebounding were called upon.
Jackson-Davis’ ability to adapt to the faster pace of the NBA and his willingness to learn from veterans like Draymond Green and Kevon Looney earned him praise from teammates and coaches alike. He quickly became known for his hustle, energy, and ability to make plays that don’t always show up on the stat sheet. Despite not being a primary scoring option, his presence in the paint and his effort on both ends of the floor made him an asset for the Warriors’ bench.
As the Golden State Warriors gear up for the new season, Steve Kerr has been candid about the improvements he has seen in Jackson-Davis over the summer. Kerr highlighted the forward’s enhanced conditioning and commitment to playing with a high motor. “When he sprints the floor, you can feel it,” Kerr remarked, emphasizing how Jackson-Davis has worked to maximize his athletic gifts. This comment reflects the young player’s ability to change the tempo of the game with his energy, whether it’s racing down the court for a transition opportunity or getting back on defense to contest shots.
Kerr also pointed out that Jackson-Davis has become more comfortable with the Warriors’ offensive and defensive schemes, a crucial step for any young player trying to find their footing in the NBA. “He’s starting to see the game at a different speed,” Kerr said, noting that the forward’s understanding of spacing and defensive rotations has greatly improved. This development is key for a team like the Warriors, who rely heavily on smart ball movement and disciplined defensive positioning.
One of the most significant areas of growth for Trayce Jackson-Davis has been his willingness to embrace his role as a high-energy big man. In a league that is increasingly favoring versatile forwards who can stretch the floor, Jackson-Davis has focused on areas where he can make an immediate impact—rebounding, shot-blocking, and finishing around the rim. This mindset has allowed him to contribute effectively in limited minutes, while also giving him a foundation upon which to expand his game.
Jackson-Davis has been working on adding a mid-range jumper to his arsenal, a development that could make him more of a threat on offense. While his bread and butter remains in the post and around the rim, the ability to step out and hit a shot from 12-15 feet would force defenses to respect his shooting, thereby opening up more space for the Warriors’ star guards, Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson. Kerr mentioned that Jackson-Davis has put in the work during offseason training sessions, noting, “He’s been working tirelessly on expanding his game, and we’re starting to see the results in practice.”
With the Warriors looking to re-establish themselves as a title contender in a stacked Western Conference, the development of players like Trayce Jackson-Davis could play a pivotal role in their success. The team is built around a core of experienced veterans, but having young players who can contribute and provide fresh legs is essential for a deep playoff run. Kerr believes that Jackson-Davis’ athleticism and tenacity can be a difference-maker, especially in matchups where the Warriors need to control the boards and compete with bigger lineups.
Jackson-Davis’ ability to play with a high motor is also crucial for the Warriors’ transition game. Golden State has always thrived when they can push the tempo and create scoring opportunities in transition, and a player like Jackson-Davis, who runs the floor hard, fits perfectly into that style. His sprinting down the court not only creates chances for himself but also opens up lanes for shooters like Curry and Thompson, adding another dimension to the Warriors’ fast-break attack.
As the 2024-2025 NBA season approaches, expectations are high for Trayce Jackson-Davis. The Warriors’ coaching staff, led by Steve Kerr, has been pleased with the progress he has shown, both in terms of physicality and understanding of the game. If he can continue to build on these improvements, there is a strong possibility that Jackson-Davis could emerge as a key rotational piece for the Warriors.
Kerr’s endorsement of Jackson-Davis’ growth reflects a broader belief that the forward is ready to take a step forward in his sophomore season. The experience gained from his rookie year, combined with a summer of hard work, has prepared him to make a more significant impact. For the Warriors, having a young player who can “make you feel it” when he sprints the floor is exactly the kind of energy boost they’ll need as they navigate the challenges of a competitive NBA season.
In a team that prides itself on chemistry and effort, Trayce Jackson-Davis is fitting in perfectly with the Warriors’ culture. As he looks to prove himself on the court this season, his development will be a storyline worth watching—both for the Warriors’ faithful and for fans of emerging NBA talent.