Lacob responds to reputation for being ‘too involved’ as Warriors owner

Lacob responds to reputation for being ‘too involved’ as Warriors owner originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

Golden State Warriors owner, Joe Lacob, addresses the criticism surrounding his level of involvement in basketball decisions. In an interview on 95.7 The Game’s “The Morning Roast” show, Lacob acknowledges the perception that he may be too hands-on but clarifies that it’s essential for any team owner to be actively engaged.

According to Lacob, being involved doesn’t mean micromanaging or making decisions on behalf of others. Instead, it means empowering and enabling individuals within the organization to make their own choices, even if it leads to mistakes. Lacob, who acquired the Warriors with Peter Guber in 2010, has overseen the team’s success with four NBA championships and the construction of the esteemed Chase Center arena in San Francisco.

However, one decision that continues to haunt him is the selection of center James Wiseman as the No. 2 overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft. Critics argue that players like LaMelo Ball and Tyrese Haliburton would have been better choices. Lacob openly expressed his admiration for Wiseman after the draft, claiming that the young center was his preferred pick.

Yet, in a surprising turn of events, Wiseman was traded to the Detroit Pistons in February, signaling a shift in the Warriors’ long-term plans. The team now focuses on maximizing the remaining years of Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green’s careers.

While some sports owners may shy away from involvement in the pre-draft process, Lacob sees it as a positive trait. He firmly believes that understanding every aspect of the organization is crucial for success. Additionally, Lacob admits to monitoring social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter), where he reads comments and criticisms without directly engaging.

Lacob concludes by emphasizing the importance of staying informed and making educated decisions in the best interest of the organization. As the Warriors continue their journey, Lacob remains committed to being actively involved in shaping their future.

Download and follow the Dubs Talk Podcast