In a move that flew under the radar, the Golden State Warriors have added Kansas State forward Coleman Hawkins to their Summer League roster, a potential coup that could bolster their already dynamic lineup. Hawkins, an undrafted free agent who withdrew from the 2024 NBA Draft, brings a versatile skill set that aligns perfectly with the Warriors’ fast-paced, defense-first philosophy. With his proven stats of 10.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 1.8 steals per game during his lone season at Kansas State, Hawkins has the tools to make an immediate impact in the NBA.
A Diamond in the Rough
Hawkins, who spent four years at Illinois before transferring to Kansas State for the 2024-25 season, was lured to the Wildcats with a reported $2 million name, image, and likeness (NIL) deal. His performance on the court justified the investment, earning him third-team All-Big 12 honors on a Kansas State team that finished with a 16-17 record. Despite going undrafted, Hawkins’ combination of size, playmaking, and defensive tenacity caught the eye of the Warriors, who announced his addition to their Summer League roster on June 29, 2025.
The Warriors’ Summer League squad, set to compete in the California Classic (July 5-8 in San Francisco) and the NBA 2K26 Summer League (July 10-20 in Las Vegas), is stacked with potential. Alongside Hawkins, the roster features second-round picks Alex Toohey (Sydney Kings, Australia) and Will Richard (Florida), as well as undrafted free agents LJ Cryer (Houston) and Chance McMillan (Texas Tech). This mix of young talent gives Golden State a chance to evaluate Hawkins in high-stakes settings, with a likely invite to their preseason camp to follow.
Why Hawkins Fits the Warriors
Hawkins’ stat line from Kansas State—10.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 1.8 steals—tells only part of the story. At 6’10”, he brings positional versatility, capable of defending multiple positions and facilitating offense with his passing. His 1.8 steals per game highlight his knack for disrupting passing lanes, a trait that could make him a perfect fit for a Warriors team known for its “ball-hawking” defensive schemes. Paired with Golden State’s core of Steph Curry, Draymond Green, and a revitalized Klay Thompson, Hawkins could add a new dimension to their fast-break offense and suffocating defense.
“His ability to switch on defense and create plays off the dribble makes him a modern NBA forward,” said an anonymous scout quoted on X. “The Warriors got a steal here if he can translate his college game to the pros.”
K-State Pipeline to the Summer League
Hawkins won’t be the only Kansas State alum showcasing his skills this summer. Three former Wildcats—Cam Carter (LSU), Arthur Kaluma (Texas), and Selton Miguel (Maryland)—have also secured Summer League spots. Carter signed with the San Antonio Spurs, Kaluma with the Los Angeles Lakers, and Miguel, who played under former K-State coach Bruce Weber, with the Utah Jazz. This quartet represents a strong showing for Kansas State, underscoring the program’s ability to produce NBA-caliber talent despite a challenging 2024-25 season.
What’s Next for Hawkins and the Warriors?
The California Classic and NBA 2K26 Summer League will be critical proving grounds for Hawkins. With all 30 NBA teams participating in Las Vegas, where each team plays four preliminary games and the top four advance to the playoffs, Hawkins will have ample opportunity to showcase his skills. A strong performance could earn him a two-way contract or a spot on the Warriors’ G League affiliate, the Santa Cruz Warriors, as he looks to carve out a role in the NBA.
The Warriors, coming off a 2024-25 season where they fell short of championship expectations, are clearly investing in versatile, high-IQ players like Hawkins to complement their star-studded roster. If Hawkins can harness his defensive instincts and playmaking ability, Golden State may have quietly unearthed a gem capable of turning them into an even more fearsome force in the NBA.
As the Summer League tips off, all eyes will be on Hawkins to see if he can translate his college production into professional success—and help the Warriors reclaim their spot atop the NBA’s pecking order.