Bob Myers admits leaving one Warriors NBA Finals game in GM tenure – NBC Sports Bay Area & California

Former Warriors general manager Bob Myers finds peace in his decision to transition from the organization to the world of TV analysis. Leaving behind the emotional toll of a 12-year tenure as the Warriors’ roster architect, where every game held immense importance.

In a recent conversation with ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski on “The Woj Pod,” Myers addressed the helplessness he felt in his previous role. As an NBA analyst for ESPN, Myers confesses to leaving a game only once in 12 years due to emotional strain. He reflects on how some GMs, like Jerry West, regularly employ this coping mechanism.

Myers realized the value of being present for all the highs and lows. The risk of experiencing pain after a loss is worthwhile for the chance to witness something great unfold. Under Myers’ leadership, the Warriors played in a total of 34 NBA Finals games, including 18 home games. The anxiety-inducing battles against the Cleveland Cavaliers and Toronto Raptors created many nail-biting moments at Oracle Arena.

As for leaving a Finals game early, Myers alludes to the movie “Moneyball.” The film tells the story of the Oakland Athletics’ rise in the early 2000s, and their general manager Billy Beane, portrayed by Brad Pitt, who couldn’t watch games. Myers relates to this mindset and the torturous way of living through the ups and downs of a game, as depicted in the movie.

Now, Myers can enjoy watching Warriors games as a fan, no longer burdened by the emotional investment he once had. It’s a huge relief for someone who lived and breathed with every outcome.

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