When it comes to building a championship-caliber roster, the Golden State Warriors have long relied on the NBA Draft as their foundation. From superstar selections to unexpected gems, the draft has brought some of the most memorable players to the Bay Area. But the Warriors haven't just looked to powerhouse programs—they've also taken chances on talent from smaller schools, including Colgate University.
While the Warriors are best known for drafting legends like Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson from major programs, their history includes a few intriguing picks from Colgate. These selections may not have become household names, but they add an interesting chapter to the team's draft story. Let's break down every player the Warriors have ever drafted out of Colgate.
1953 NBA Draft – Round 8, Pick 70 overall
This early-era pick represents the Warriors' first venture into Colgate's talent pool. Unfortunately, this player never suited up for the team, a common outcome in the deeper rounds of the 1950s drafts when rosters were smaller and competition was fierce.
1997 NBA Draft – Round 1, Pick 8 overall
Fast forward more than four decades, and the Warriors again looked to Colgate in the first round. This selection marked a significant investment, but the player ultimately did not make the final roster. It's a reminder that even high draft picks don't always pan out, especially when transitioning from a smaller program to the NBA's elite level.
All stats and data courtesy of Basketball Reference. While the Colgate-Warriors draft connection hasn't produced a star, it highlights the team's willingness to scout beyond the usual suspects—a philosophy that has served them well in building their dynasty.
