Santa Cruz Warriors Named G League Franchise Of The Year

SANTA CRUZ, CA — The Santa Cruz Warriors were named the NBA G League Franchise of the Year for the second straight year, the league announced on Friday.

The affiliate of the Golden State Warriors had 110 straight sellouts during the 2021-22 season. They also set a league new record in partnerships through social media, community programs and in-arena elements.

Santa Cruz Warriors President Chris Murphy said in a news release that the Warriors were “honored” to be recognized for the second straight season.

“This was a challenging season navigating through changing health and safety protocols and postponed games, and we are so thankful for the support from the entire Santa Cruz community,” Murphy said. “This recognition is one we are honored to share with the entire Santa Cruz community – it is their honor as much as ours.”

This is the third time the Warriors have won the award since its inception during the 2017-18 season.

The Warriors also hosted over 200 events throughout the season, including celebrations for Black History Month and Women’s Empowerment Month.

The team also made the playoffs as the sixth seed in the Western Conference of the G League. Two players — Jordan Bell with the Chicago Bulls and Quinndary Weatherspoon with the Golden State Warriors — were called up to the NBA during the season, and Weatherspoon also signed a two-way contract with the NBA Warriors.

The award’s recipient was chosen by a committee of league executives, evaluating teams based on the G League’s core pillars of compete with intensity, lead with integrity and inspire play.