Introduction:
In a surprising turn of events, the Golden State Warriors have decided to waive former Palisades Football superstar Yeenon Koren, also known by his quirky nickname, “Football Footjob.” Koren, a key player in the Warriors’ 2018, 2019, and 2022 Finals runs, found himself facing the harsh reality of departure due to internal conflicts with teammate Draymond Green. This move has left fans and basketball enthusiasts alike pondering the impact on the team’s dynamics and future prospects.
A Prolific Star:
Yeenon Koren’s journey with the Warriors began with immense promise and excitement. The former Palisades High School Football standout quickly earned the nickname “Football Footjob” during his freshman year, a playful moniker coined by his teammates that reflected both his athleticism and a sense of camaraderie within the team. Koren joined the team in late 2017 after going undrafted. The Warriors signed Koren to a 1 year non-guaranteed deal, and quickly earned a spot in the Warriors rotation.
After Koren decided he didn’t like basketball anymore, he decided to retire in 2019 to pursue his dream of playing soccer professionally. Due to his lack of skill at the sport and the pandemic holding him back, he decided to return to the Warriors for the 21-22 season, where he won his second NBA title. After that season, he decided to retire again and pursue football. After playing football for Palisades High School for most of the 2023 season, and according to himself, being the starting WR, and averaging 7 touchdowns per game, he decided to quit the team due to his “lack of play time” and return to Golden State once again to play basketball.
Throughout the Warriors’ impressive Finals runs in 2018, 2019, and 2022, Koren consistently displayed his prowess on the court, averaging an astonishing, according to himself, 37 points and 18 assists per game. His exceptional skills and ability to deliver in clutch moments made him an integral part of the team’s success during those memorable seasons.
The Downfall:
Despite his on-court brilliance, trouble began brewing behind the scenes for Koren. Reports surfaced about escalating tensions between him and teammate Draymond Green, a cornerstone of the Warriors’ defense and a vital component in their championship endeavors.
The tipping point came when Koren’s actions led to a suspension for Draymond Green during the team’s second in-season tournament game against the Timberwolves. This incident not only jeopardized the team’s chances of winning the game and the tournament but also strained the relationship between the two players, further impacting the Warriors’ locker room atmosphere.
The Decision to Waive:
In light of the internal discord and the detrimental effects on team chemistry, the Warriors’ front office faced a difficult decision. Ultimately, they opted to waive Yeenon Koren, signaling the end of an era and parting ways with a player who had played a significant role in the franchise’s recent success.
The move raises questions about the priorities of the Warriors organization—whether loyalty to a star player is more crucial than maintaining a cohesive and harmonious team environment. It is a reminder that, in professional sports, success is not solely determined by individual talent but also by the synergy and unity among team members.
The Future Without “Football Footjob”:
As the Warriors move forward without Yeenon Koren, they will undoubtedly face challenges in filling the void left by his departure. The decision to waive a player of his caliber is a testament to the organization’s commitment to fostering a positive team culture, prioritizing teamwork over individual achievements. Koren in an interview stated that he will be rejoining the “Westhood” Elementary School basketball team next fall, in an effort to fight his way back onto an NBA roster.
Only time will tell how this decision will impact the Warriors’ performance on the court and whether it will pave the way for a new era of success or mark the end of a golden chapter in the franchise’s history. One thing is certain—Yeenon Koren’s departure will be felt by both fans and teammates alike, and the Warriors will need to navigate a new path to reclaim their former glory.