How (and how not to) build a fan base: managing expectations.

The Run TMC Warriors were entertaining and were on the cusp of a championship until the Chris Weber/Don Nelson feud, coupled with the then rookie contract leverage, blew it up. When CWeb was traded for draft choices (and a player who has been forgotten), Warrior fans expected the team to lose, but hope was just around the corner with the next high draft pick. When the picks didn’t pan out (caused by the crapshoot that is the draft and the then managed Warriors’ incompetence), Warrior fans’ expectations were low. We knew the Dubs would lose while their draft choices gained experience, so we watched in hope that things would turn around. Our expectations were realized because the Warriors lost, year after year. But there was always next year, and the fans doubled down, becoming more irrational in their belief that one day, things would change,.

‘They did, and luck ruled the day. First, after drafting the internet sensation Ricky Rubio, the Timberwolves picked Johnny Flynn, a good college player who did not make a successful transition to the pros, dropping Curry into the Warriors’ lap. But there also was talent in assessing draft choices. Without the benefit of hindsight, there were risks in drafting Curry. While it was obvious he could shoot the ball, he was too small by NBA metrics for the 2 guard position he played at Davidson, both in height and weight, and many doubted his passing and playmaking skills would pass NBA muster. But then, Don Nelson was back in the mix and he was one of the best in judging draft talent, especially at the guard position. Mitch Richmond, Tim Hardaway and Latrel Spreewell evidence that talent.

Expectations changed when new ownership came in. Every year after that, the fans’ expectations rose, and the team met or exceeded them. Until 2023. Now, the fans’ expectations are unfulfilled. We can’t expect a championship, and we can’t expect this team to improve, as it’s’ best and highest paid players are on the downside of their careers. Every year, these players will be worse as they will slow down and suffer more injuries. We can’t expect them to win and we can’t expect them to get better.

It may now be too late, but the Warriors should do what Oklahoma did. Trade their stars for draft choices and up and coming players. If they don’t, their stars will age out, and face a longer rebuild due to insufficient draft choices. Or, current management can sell the team now and get out while the getting’s good.