The Golden State Warriors, an esteemed franchise with a history exceeding 75 years, has witnessed numerous athletes grace its roster, each contributing to its rich legacy. From its origins in 1946 as part of the Basketball Association of America (a predecessor to the NBA), the team has established roots in diverse locations including Philadelphia, San Francisco, Oakland, and even San Diego.
To celebrate the distinguished players who have worn the team's various jersey numbers throughout its existence, a dedicated series of articles chronicles this remarkable journey. This installment shines a spotlight on the fifth individual to don the No. 43 jersey for the Warriors: the memorable forward, Mickey Johnson. Johnson's professional career began after his collegiate days at Aurora, when he was selected as the 56th overall pick in the 1974 NBA Draft by the Portland Trail Blazers.
A native of Chicago, Illinois, Johnson spent his initial five professional seasons with the Chicago Bulls following a trade before his rookie year. His journey continued with stints at the Indiana Pacers, Milwaukee Bucks, and the New Jersey Nets (now the Brooklyn Nets) before he was acquired by the Warriors in 1983. During his time with the team, Johnson exclusively wore the No. 43 jersey, showcasing his talents with impressive averages of 13.8 points, 6.7 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.1 steals per game. His tenure with the Warriors concluded in 1985 when he was traded back to the Nets, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated performance.
The journey of every player, like Mickey Johnson, who has worn a Warriors jersey, symbolizes dedication, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence. Each number tells a story, contributing to the vibrant tapestry of the team's history and inspiring future generations to strive for greatness both on and off the court. These narratives remind us that true achievement is built on collective effort and unwavering spirit.