Early Years and the Birth of the Franchise

The Warriors’ history is intertwined with the early years of the NBA. Founded as the Philadelphia Warriors in 1946, they were one of the original teams in the Basketball Association of America (BAA), the precursor to the NBA. The team was owned by Peter A. Tyrrell and coached by Eddie Gottlieb, one of the league’s pioneers. In their inaugural season, the Warriors won the championship, establishing a strong foundation for the team’s future.

During their early years, the Warriors had standout players, including Hall of Famer Joe Fulks, who is often credited with helping to popularize the jump shot in basketball. Fulks led the team in scoring during their championship run, and the Warriors quickly became one of the more successful franchises in the league.

Relocation to California

In 1962, the franchise moved to San Francisco and became the San Francisco Warriors. This marked a new chapter in the team’s history. The Warriors had a few successful seasons, with players like Wilt Chamberlain leading the team in the early 1960s. Chamberlain, arguably one of the greatest players in NBA history, played for the Warriors during the 1962-1965 seasons, setting numerous records, including a 100-point game in 1962, which still stands today.

Despite Chamberlain’s presence, the Warriors did not win a championship during his time with the team. However, the move to California laid the foundation for a future that would see the Warriors become one of the most successful franchises in the modern NBA.

In 1971, the team changed its name to the Golden State Warriors, reflecting their identity as a team representing the entire state of California, not just San Francisco. This period saw a number of changes in the team’s roster and management, but the Warriors were still striving to reach the heights of greatness.

The 1975 Championship

The 1974-75 season was a defining one for the Warriors. Despite being an underdog team, the Warriors, led by coach Al Attles, pulled off a shocking victory in the NBA Finals against the heavily favored Washington Bullets. The Warriors’ championship run in 1975 marked the team’s first title since their early days in Philadelphia, and it was a reminder that the Warriors had the potential to become champions in any era.

This victory was highlighted by the exceptional play of Rick Barry, a Hall of Famer and one of the greatest players in the history of the franchise. Barry was named the Finals MVP after leading the team with his scoring, playmaking, and leadership. His iconic underhand free throw shooting technique became famous and remains part of Warriors lore to this day.

Struggles and Rebuilding

Despite their success in 1975, the Warriors went through several years of rebuilding in the decades that followed. The 1980s and early 1990s were a mixed bag for the team, with occasional bright spots but no sustained success. The Warriors had notable players such as Chris Mullin, Tim Hardaway, and Mitch Richmond, but the team struggled to make deep playoff runs. The franchise was constantly in search of the right formula to return to championship contention.

However, one bright moment came in the late 1980s when the Warriors made a memorable run in the 1987-88 season, led by coach Don Nelson. The Warriors played an exciting brand of basketball, but they fell short in the playoffs. Despite this, it became clear that the Warriors had the potential to be a championship-caliber team again in the future.

The Arrival of the Splash Brothers

The turning point for the Warriors came in the late 2000s with the arrival of key players like Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green. This trio would eventually become known as the “Splash Brothers” and “The Hamptons Five,” revolutionizing the NBA with their unique style of play.

Stephen Curry, the face of the franchise and arguably the greatest shooter in NBA history, joined the Warriors in 2009. His ability to shoot from deep, change the flow of the game, and lead the offense in new ways made him the centerpiece of the team. Curry’s presence also elevated Klay Thompson and Draymond Green, two other key players who complemented his style of play.

In 2015, under the leadership of coach Steve Kerr, the Warriors won their first championship in 40 years, ending a long championship drought. The team’s unselfish ball movement, three-point shooting, and defensive prowess redefined the modern NBA. The Warriors’ success was not just based on individual talent but also on a cohesive team effort that focused on passing, spacing, and defense.

Dynasty and Championships

The Warriors’ success in 2015 was just the beginning of an era of dominance. The team followed up with championships in 2017 and 2018, cementing their place as one of the greatest NBA dynasties of all time. During this period, the Warriors became known for their up-tempo offense, built around their “small ball” lineup, which allowed them to stretch the floor and take advantage of mismatches.

In 2017, the Warriors added superstar Kevin Durant to their roster, forming a superteam that was nearly unstoppable. Durant, along with Curry, Thompson, and Green, helped propel the Warriors to one of the most dominant stretches in NBA history. The 2017 and 2018 championship victories were a testament to the team’s versatility, teamwork, and talent.

However, the Warriors’ dynasty was not without its challenges. Injuries to key players like Durant and Thompson in the following seasons, along with a strong competitive field, meant that the Warriors would face adversity in their pursuit of further championships. But even in these years of struggle, the Warriors’ legacy remained intact, and their 3,000th win in 2025 represents the culmination of their ability to overcome challenges and build a successful team over decades.

The Road to 3,000 Wins

Reaching 3,000 wins is no small feat. It places the Warriors among an exclusive group of NBA teams: the Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Lakers, Chicago Bulls, and San Antonio Spurs. These franchises are all considered pillars of the NBA, with rich histories and consistent success.

For the Warriors, the road to 3,000 wins was marked by periods of rebuilding, moments of great individual achievement, and ultimately, the development of a winning culture. From their early years in Philadelphia to their modern dynasty, the Warriors’ history is one of perseverance, innovation, and teamwork. Their 3,000th win is a reminder of their resilience and their place in the history of the NBA.

Legacy and Future

As the Warriors celebrate this significant achievement, the future looks bright. With young talent like Jordan Poole, and veterans like Curry, Thompson, and Green, the Warriors continue to be a competitive force in the NBA. The team’s ability to develop players, build a cohesive system, and maintain a winning culture will ensure that the franchise remains a contender for years to come.

The Warriors’ 3,000th victory is a testament to the franchise’s commitment to excellence. As one of the most successful teams in NBA history, they have cemented their place in the league’s pantheon of greats. Their legacy of success is built on the foundation laid by those who came before them, and their future is bright with the promise of more victories and championships ahead.

In the end, the Warriors’ achievement of 3,000 wins is more than just a number. It represents the dedication of countless players, coaches, and staff who have contributed to the team’s success over the years. It is a symbol of their commitment to greatness, their ability to evolve, and their place among the NBA’s elite franchises.