Ever wonder about the legends behind the Golden State Warriors’ iconic jersey numbers? We’re taking a deep dive into the history, starting with a true pioneer! Uncover the story of Jim King, the inaugural wearer of the No. 21 jersey. What’s your favorite Warriors jersey number, and who wore it best?

The Golden State Warriors franchise boasts a monumental history spanning over 75 years, during which more than 600 distinct players have proudly donned an array of over 60 different jersey numbers. This deep and storied past is a testament to the enduring legacy of one of the NBA’s most celebrated organizations. Each number tells a unique tale, reflecting the eras, the triumphs, and the individual brilliance of the basketball legends who brought them to life on the court.

Embarking on a commemorative journey, this series delves into the complete chronicle of Golden State Warriors jersey numbers, tracing the lineage of athletes who sported them since the team’s very inception. We commence this comprehensive exploration with the revered No. 21 jersey, a number that has been worn by 23 distinct players throughout the franchise’s existence. Our focus for this inaugural chapter is on the first luminary to grace this particular uniform: guard alum Jim King.

Jim King, a native of Tulsa, Oklahoma, carved out a notable collegiate career at the University of Tulsa before making his leap to professional basketball. His talents caught the eye of NBA scouts, leading to his selection as the 14th overall pick in the 1963 NBA Draft by the formidable Los Angeles Lakers. King spent his foundational professional years, a period of three seasons, honing his skills and contributing to the Lakers’ efforts, establishing himself as a capable and determined player in the league.

King’s tenure with the Lakers concluded in 1966 when he was part of a significant transaction that sent him to the Chicago Bulls, who then promptly dealt him to the San Francisco Warriors. This pivotal move marked the beginning of his impactful, though relatively brief, association with the franchise now known as the Golden State Warriors. His arrival infused the team with experienced guard play during a formative period for the burgeoning Western Conference powerhouse.

During his distinguished time wearing the Golden State Warriors jersey, Jim King exclusively donned the No. 21, cementing his identity with that particular digit for the team’s fanbase. Over parts of four seasons, his on-court contributions were consistently solid, demonstrating his all-around game. He averaged an impressive 12.0 points, coupled with 4.1 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game, showcasing his versatility and fundamental importance to the Warriors’ offensive and defensive schemes.

King’s impactful run with the Warriors spanned from 1966 until 1969. His journey with the team concluded when he was traded to the Cincinnati Royals, a franchise that would later become the Sacramento Kings. This departure marked the end of an era for King in the Bay Area, though his statistical output and role during his tenure left an indelible mark on the Golden State Warriors’ early history.

Jim King’s contributions, particularly as the initial wearer of the No. 21 jersey, underscore his place among basketball legends who built the foundation of the Golden State Warriors’ enduring legacy. His robust statistics and consistent presence during his years with the team are a crucial part of the rich tapestry of NBA history. This series aims to shine a light on such pivotal figures and the iconic Warriors jersey numbers they represented, celebrating each unique chapter in the franchise’s illustrious timeline.