Warriors guard Gary Payton II says this season's team has 2022 title vibes
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The gist
Warriors guard Gary Payton II is averaging 8.5 points in 14.5 minutes as Golden State opens 0-2.
He compares this roster to the 2022 title team despite outside doubts.
Background
Gary Payton II is a guard for the Golden State Warriors, wearing No. 0; he was born in Seattle and attended Oregon State. As the 2026-27 NBA season approaches, many fans and prognosticators don't view the Warriors as a championship threat, even with Steph Curry still playing at a high level and Jimmy Butler set to return from a season-ending ACL injury suffered in January. The team didn't make significant roster moves after pursuing LeBron James. Payton II says he is feeling 2022 NBA title vibes despite the doubters.
How it unfolded
- Oct 21, 2026Payton II scored 10 points with 1 rebound and 0 assists against the Los Angeles Lakers.
- Oct 22, 2026The Warriors beat the Lakers 127-105; Payton II played 18 minutes.
- Oct 23, 2026Payton II had 7 points and 2 rebounds against the Memphis Grizzlies, and video clips of his plays were posted.
- Oct 24, 2026Golden State lost to Memphis 108-111; Payton II played 10 minutes with 7 points and 2 rebounds. Through two games he is averaging 8.5 points, 1.5 rebounds and 0.0 assists in 14.5 minutes.
- Oct 26, 2026Payton II's next game is at the Denver Nuggets, 10:00 PM ET.
Who’s saying what
- Player
- Payton II says he feels 2022 NBA title vibes despite the doubters, citing a good mix of young guys and the need to stay healthy and have fun.
- Caution
- Payton II also admits the Warriors can improve if they get rid of "old habits."
- Analysts
- Many fans and prognosticators don't view the Warriors as a championship threat this season.