The Golden State Warriors and their stalwart big man, Kevon Looney, have parted ways after a decade of grit, hustle, and three championship rings in the Bay Area. Looney, known for his relentless energy and tenacious play on both ends of the court, may not have filled up stat sheets, but his heart and hustle were integral to the Warriors’ dynasty. However, with Looney’s departure to the New Orleans Pelicans as a free agent, Golden State faces a glaring gap in their frontcourt—a gap they’re hoping a new 6-foot-10 addition can help fill.
Enter Marques Bolden, a towering presence who once shared the court with none other than Jayson Tatum during their days at Duke University in the 2016-17 season. The Warriors’ PR team announced via their X account that Bolden has been signed to their Summer League roster, signaling a potential solution to their big-man woes. But can this relatively unheralded center step up and make an impact for a franchise with championship aspirations?
During their time at Duke, Tatum dazzled, averaging 16.8 points and 7.3 rebounds per game, cementing his status as a top-tier NBA prospect. Bolden, on the other hand, struggled to find his footing. The DeSoto, Texas native averaged a modest 1.5 points and 1.1 rebounds per contest in his freshman year. Despite two additional seasons with the Blue Devils, Bolden’s college career remained underwhelming, and he entered the NBA as an undrafted free agent in 2019.
Since then, Bolden’s professional journey has been a grind. Across 18 NBA games with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Charlotte Hornets from 2019 to 2024, he’s averaged just 2.4 points and 2.3 rebounds per night. Hardly numbers that scream “game-changer.” Yet, at 27 years old, Bolden’s size and potential remain intriguing, especially for a Warriors team in desperate need of frontcourt depth.
Realistically, expectations for Bolden in the 2025-26 season should be tempered. His NBA track record suggests he’s yet to unlock the kind of impact that could fill Looney’s shoes. However, the Summer League offers a golden opportunity for the 6-foot-10 “beast” to prove his worth. A strong showing—marked by dominant rebounding, rim protection, and hustle—could turn heads and position Bolden as a viable reserve big man for Golden State.
Looney’s departure leaves big shoes to fill. His high-energy plays, selfless screens, and knack for grabbing crucial rebounds were the heartbeat of the Warriors’ frontcourt. Bolden, while unproven, brings raw athleticism and size that could complement Golden State’s fast-paced, switch-heavy system. If he can channel his inner Looney and bring relentless effort, he might just carve out a role in the Bay.
As the Warriors gear up for the Summer League, all eyes will be on Marques Bolden. Can this former Duke teammate of Jayson Tatum defy the odds and emerge as a surprise contributor? Or will Golden State need to look elsewhere to bolster their frontcourt? One thing’s for certain: Bolden’s performance this summer could be the spark that either ignites his NBA career or leaves him as another fleeting name in the Warriors’ roster shuffle. The stage is set—let’s see if this 6-foot-10 beast can roar.