RIGA, LV — Isaac Bonga just capped a career-defining summer. The 25-year-old guard-forward anchored Germany’s defense while drilling shots at a startling rate. His work earned him EuroBasket’s first-ever Defensive Player of the Year award. He also helped his team claim the championship with a win over Türkiye. In that title game, Bonga surprised with 20 points. He didn’t miss a three, hitting 4-for-4 from deep. That shooting matched the rest of his tournament showing, where he hit 45 percent from distance and 53 percent overall.
EuroBasket DPOY, Isaac Bonga Linked To Warriors But He Can’t Sign Yet
The NBA’s Eyes Turn Back
Bonga has been on the NBA radar before. Drafted in 2018, he logged minutes with the Lakers, Wizards, and Raptors. His NBA stint stalled after 2022, sending him back to Europe. Since then, he has sharpened his game with Partizan Belgrade.
Reports from Marc Stein confirm that several NBA teams were already interested in him before EuroBasket. Those whispers have only grown louder. The Warriors and Isaac Bonga connection makes sense on different levels. Golden State needs depth. They currently have only nine players rostered while the Jonathan Kuminga standoff drags on.
The Contract Roadblock
Here is the issue: Bonga cannot sign today. His NBA exit clause with Partizan expired this summer. That locks him into Europe for at least another season. He recently extended his deal in Serbia, keeping him in the EuroLeague and ABA League.
That clause matters. It prevents teams like Golden State from bringing him in this season. For now, Isaac Bonga’s fit on the Warriors is theoretical. They will have to wait until 2026 to act.
Why Golden State Should Care
The Warriors lack wings with size who can defend multiple positions. Bonga offers that profile. He also brings improved shooting and the confidence of an EuroBasket champion. His versatility fits Steve Kerr’s motion system.
A parallel exists with Guerschon Yabusele. His Olympic breakout with France earned him an NBA return. Philadelphia signed him. Now he will join the Knicks. That path could have been Bonga’s—if not for the expired clause.
Looking Ahead
Bonga’s NBA comeback feels delayed, not denied. His performance in Latvia ensures teams will keep watching. Isaac Bonga’s logical fit on the Warriors highlights a need they still must solve. Golden State cannot act yet, but they might in a year.
Credit: © Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images
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