SAN FRANCISCO, CA – In a bold move signaling their unwavering commitment to championship contention, the Golden State Warriors have officially signed veteran big man Al Horford to a two-year contract, sources close to the team confirmed today, Friday, July 4, 2025. The signing, which comes just days into the frenetic NBA free agency period, sees the 39-year-old former NBA champion join a Warriors roster intent on maximizing the remaining window of their aging, yet still formidable, core.
While the precise financial terms were not immediately disclosed, league sources indicate that the Warriors likely utilized their taxpayer midlevel exception (projected at around $5.7 million for the 2025-26 season) to secure Horford’s services. This move, while adding a crucial piece, will hard-cap the Warriors at the second apron of the luxury tax, underscoring the team’s willingness to incur significant financial penalties in pursuit of another Larry O’Brien trophy.
Despite his age, Al Horford remains one of the most respected and versatile big men in the NBA. Fresh off winning his first NBA championship with the Boston Celtics in 2024, Horford brings a blend of experience, high basketball IQ, defensive acumen, and floor-spacing ability that perfectly aligns with the Warriors’ distinct offensive and defensive schemes.
In the 2024-25 season with the Celtics, Horford appeared in 60 games (42 starts), averaging a robust 9.0 points, 6.2 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 0.9 blocks per contest. Crucially for the Warriors, he shot an impressive 36.3% from three-point range on decent volume, making him a legitimate “stretch five” who can pull opposing centers away from the paint, opening up driving lanes for Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler (reportedly acquired by the Warriors prior to this free agency), and other Warriors penetrators.
The Warriors’ need for a reliable, floor-spacing center was well-documented. With the departure of long-time Warrior Kevon Looney (who reportedly signed with the New Orleans Pelicans), Golden State had a void in its frontcourt. While they drafted Filipino big man Kai Sotto with the 61st overall pick, Sotto is considered a long-term developmental project who isn’t expected to contribute immediately at an NBA level. Horford, in contrast, is a proven commodity ready to step into a significant role from day one.
- Championship Pedigree: Horford’s recent championship experience with the Celtics is invaluable. He understands what it takes to win at the highest level, the sacrifices required, and the composure needed in high-stakes playoff moments. This winning mentality is precisely what a veteran-laden Warriors team desires.
- Floor Spacing: His ability to consistently knock down three-pointers is arguably his most coveted skill for the Warriors. He provides essential spacing for Stephen Curry’s off-ball movement and the team’s drive-and-kick offense. This opens up the paint for Draymond Green’s facilitating and Butler’s drives.
- Defensive Versatility: Horford is a smart and disciplined defender who can guard multiple positions. He’s comfortable switching onto smaller players on the perimeter and can hold his own against traditional bigs in the post. His ability to anchor a defense, combined with Draymond Green’s elite defensive instincts, promises a formidable frontcourt presence.
- Passing and Playmaking: Horford is an underrated passer from the high post, capable of making quick reads and finding cutters. This fits seamlessly into the Warriors’ unselfish, ball-movement-heavy offense.
- Veteran Leadership and IQ: At 39, Horford is a consummate professional. His leadership, calm demeanor, and high basketball IQ will be vital in the locker room, providing mentorship to younger players and stability during challenging stretches of the season. He rarely makes mistakes and always seems to be in the right place at the right time.
- Durability (Despite Age): While his age is a factor, Horford has maintained a remarkable level of durability, appearing in 60+ games in each of his last four seasons. His ability to manage minutes and contribute effectively speaks to his meticulous preparation and enduring fitness.
The signing of Al Horford solidifies the Warriors’ roster as they push for another title run in the 2025-26 season. The core now features:
- Stephen Curry (37 years old): Still an elite offensive force.
- Jimmy Butler (36 years old): The two-way superstar added to provide scoring, playmaking, and defensive grit.
- Draymond Green (35 years old): The defensive anchor, facilitator, and emotional leader.
- Al Horford (39 years old): The new veteran center, providing spacing, defense, and championship experience.
The Warriors also boast promising young talent like Moses Moody (23), Brandin Podziemski (22), and Trayce Jackson-Davis (25), who will be expected to take on larger roles. The addition of Kai Sotto at 61st overall signifies a long-term vision, but Horford is clearly the immediate answer at the center position.
The Warriors’ decision to use their taxpayer midlevel exception on Horford confirms their status as a hard-capped team at the second apron. This means they cannot exceed the second apron ($207.8 million for 2025-26) for any reason this season. This severely restricts their ability to make further significant moves, placing immense pressure on the current roster construction and the health of their key players. The financial implications for ownership are staggering, underscoring the “all-in” approach of the franchise.
The acquisition of Al Horford is a clear statement of intent from the Golden State Warriors. They are not rebuilding; they are retooling for immediate contention. Horford’s skillset is a near-perfect fit for Steve Kerr’s system, and his championship experience provides an invaluable intangible. While his age will inevitably lead to questions about his long-term viability, for a team looking to win now, Horford represents a calculated and potentially highly effective gamble. The Bay Area faithful will undoubtedly welcome the veteran big man, hoping his presence can help propel the Warriors back to the NBA Finals.
