David West has signed on to play one more season with the Golden State Warriors. On Friday, the 14-year veteran was honored for his work off the court.
West was voted as the Warriors teammate of the year for his impact both on and away from the hardwood, by the NBA Players Association on Friday.
WEST
The teammates with the biggest impact on and off the court. Check out the #PlayersVoice Award winners for Best Teammate. pic.twitter.com/AqcrEI1l6P
— NBPA (@TheNBPA) August 18, 2017
In his first season in Golden State, West emerged as a mentor that was universally respected within the Warriors locker room. Additionally, West hasn’t shied away in the past from statements on racial justice.
West epitomized the sacrifice that helped carry the Warriors to the NBA title, taking the veteran minimum and a diminished role, doing whatever is asked to help win a championship. Despite playing just over 12 minutes per game last season, West was very effective, finishing 11th overall in real-plus minus amongst all power forwards, while averaging 2.2 assists per game, an impressive number considering his position and time on the court.
West’s home floor, Oracle Arena, also received a Players Voice Award for best home court advantage in the NBA.
? WAY ?. Best Home Court Advantage goes to @warriors. #PlayersVoice pic.twitter.com/sNmh9gdAHL
— NBPA (@TheNBPA) August 18, 2017
Oracle Arena sold out all 41 home games during the 2016-17 regular season. It’s roar carried into the playoffs, where the Warriors recorded a 9-0 home record during the postseason, including the championship-clinching Game 5 of the NBA Finals.
While Draymond Green was voted as the NBA’s Defensive Player of the Year the Spurs’ Kawhi Leonard was honored as top defender by the players. Andre Iguodala was also beat out for best sixth man.
This is the 3rd annual installment of the Players Voice Awards, an annual awards ceremony presented by the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA).