Warriors’ Leons: From G-League Standout to NBA Opportunity
The Golden State Warriors are finding unexpected contributions from a familiar face within their organization: Malevy Leons. Even as averaging 13.8 points and 7.1 rebounds for the Santa Cruz Warriors, Leons recently received a significant opportunity with the NBA team, making the most of it in a Wednesday win against the Memphis Grizzlies.
A Two-Way Contract’s Promise
Signed to a two-way contract in December, Leons’ path to the NBA wasn’t straightforward. Prior to joining the Warriors, he spent time with the Oklahoma City Thunder and their G League affiliate, the Oklahoma City Blue, averaging 11.2 points and 7.5 rebounds over two seasons. The two-way contract allows players to split time between the NBA team and its G League affiliate, providing valuable development opportunities.
Stepping Up Amidst Injuries
The Warriors found themselves short-handed heading into their game against the Grizzlies, with key players like Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Kristaps Porzingis unavailable. Draymond Green and De’Andre Melton were also sidelined, leaving Golden State with only nine healthy players. This created an opening for Leons to spot extended minutes, a chance he seized.
A Breakout Performance
In 18 minutes against Memphis, Leons scored nine points on 3-for-5 shooting. While not a double-digit performance, it nearly doubled his total NBA minutes played this season and showcased his potential. Coach Steve Kerr praised Leons’ energy, defense, and offensive contributions, calling his performance “awesome.”
Dutch Connection on the Warriors
Leons’ appearance on the court was particularly special as he shared the floor with fellow Dutch player Quinten Post. Post highlighted the significance of two Dutch players representing their country in the NBA, noting they’ve known each other since childhood and previously played together in Amsterdam.
From Mineral Area to Bradley: Leons’ College Journey
Leons’ basketball journey began in the Netherlands with Apollo Amsterdam before he moved to the United States in 2020. He first played for Mineral Area College, where he excelled, and then transferred to Bradley University. At Bradley, he earned First-team All-MVC honors in 2024 and was named the Missouri Valley Conference Defensive Player of the Year in both 2023 and 2024.
What’s Next for Malevy Leons?
Leons’ recent performance has generated excitement around his potential. While his future role with the Warriors remains uncertain, his ability to contribute when given the opportunity could prove valuable, especially given the team’s current injury situation. He will continue to wear #33 for the Warriors.
Did you know?
Malevy Leons was undrafted in the 2024 NBA Draft, but his consistent performance in the G League earned him a two-way contract with the Golden State Warriors.
FAQ
Q: What is a two-way contract?
A: A two-way contract allows a player to split time between an NBA team and its G League affiliate.
Q: Where did Malevy Leons play college basketball?
A: He played for Mineral Area College and Bradley University.
Q: What position does Malevy Leons play?
A: He is a 6’9” forward.
Q: Is Malevy Leons Dutch?
A: Yes, he is a native of the Netherlands.
Q: Who did the Warriors waive to sign Malevy Leons?
A: The Warriors waived two-way forward Alex Toohey.
Want to learn more about the Golden State Warriors and their players? Check out more coverage on Heavy.com.
