BREAKING NEWS: Golden state Warriors Legend rick barry Returns as Co-Owner In a monumental announcement, Golden state warriors owner Joseph Steven Lacob Family has officially declared that the long-time face of the franchise, will return to the organization in 2025 as a co-owner..…view more

In a groundbreaking and emotionally charged announcement, the Golden State Warriors organization—under the leadership of principal owner Joe Lacob and the Lacob family—has officially confirmed that franchise legend Rick Barry will return to the team in 2025 as a co-owner. This monumental move brings one of the most iconic figures in Warriors history back to the franchise in a new, transformative role that signals a powerful merger of legacy and leadership.

A Legacy Rekindled

Rick Barry’s name is synonymous with Warriors greatness. He is not only one of the most electrifying scorers and competitors the game has ever seen but also the undeniable face of the Golden State Warriors’ historic 1975 NBA Championship run. Now, nearly five decades later, Barry returns to the franchise he helped elevate—not with a jersey, but with a stake in its future.

In a high-profile press conference held at the Chase Center in San Francisco, Joe Lacob stood beside Barry to deliver the historic announcement. The event was attended by several former players, current team executives, NBA officials, and hundreds of fans eager to witness the return of one of the franchise’s most celebrated heroes.

“This is more than a business decision,” said Lacob. “This is about honoring a legacy. Rick Barry helped define what it means to be a Warrior, and now he will help shape what that means in the years ahead.”

From Hardwood Hero to Hall of Fame Owner

Rick Barry’s connection to the Warriors spans more than just years—it is rooted in impact. Known for his unorthodox underhand free throw and deadly scoring ability, Barry played two stints with the franchise (then the San Francisco Warriors and later the Golden State Warriors), earning Finals MVP honors in 1975. He remains one of the few players in league history to lead the NCAA, ABA, and NBA in scoring at different times in his career.

Barry’s career accolades include:

• 8× NBA All-Star
• NBA Champion (1975)
• NBA Finals MVP (1975)
• 6× All-NBA Team Selections
• NBA 75th Anniversary Team Honoree
• Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame (1987)

Despite his greatness, Barry’s post-playing relationship with the franchise had long been considered distant. This move represents not just a professional shift, but a deeply personal reunion.

“It’s an honor to come back home,” Barry said, holding back tears. “The Golden State Warriors are a part of my soul. I’ve always loved this franchise, and now I get to be part of building its future.”

A Transformational Role

Barry’s return as co-owner is not a ceremonial one. According to internal sources within the organization, Barry will play a significant role across multiple domains of team operations, including:

• Player Development and Mentorship: Barry has long been outspoken about player fundamentals and basketball IQ. His influence is expected to shape how young players are coached and evaluated.
• Basketball Operations Advisory: With one of the sharpest basketball minds of his generation, Barry is slated to serve as a strategic consultant to the front office.
• Legacy and Culture Initiatives: Barry will also spearhead projects focused on preserving the history of the franchise and instilling a sense of Warrior pride in future generations.
• Community Engagement and Public Representation: Given his storied career and reputation, Barry is expected to be an ambassador for the team both locally and nationally.

“I’m not just putting my name on a title—I’m putting my heart into this,” Barry said. “I’m ready to work, to mentor, and to contribute at the highest level.”

The Lacob Family Vision

Joe Lacob and the Lacob family have spent over a decade rebuilding the Warriors into one of the most successful and admired franchises in professional sports. From multiple championships to record-breaking seasons, the organization has consistently demonstrated its commitment to both competitive excellence and cultural legacy.

Bringing Rick Barry into the fold as a co-owner reflects the Lacobs’ desire to link the past with the future—a recognition that great organizations are built on continuity, respect, and generational leadership.

“This isn’t just about championships,” Lacob said. “It’s about creating something that lasts. Rick Barry’s return cements our respect for those who came before while strengthening our future.”

Fan Reactions: A Wave of Nostalgia and Joy

Across the Bay Area and the NBA world, news of Barry’s return has sparked widespread excitement and nostalgia. Longtime fans took to social media to express their joy, with many describing the move as “long overdue.”

A Warriors fan posted on X (formerly Twitter):

“Rick Barry coming back as co-owner is giving me chills. He was our Jordan before Jordan. This is the best thing to happen to this franchise since the first title run with Steph.”

Younger fans, many of whom know Barry as a legendary figure from highlights and Hall of Fame reels, now have the chance to see him impact the team in real time—off the court and in the owner’s suite.

A Bridge Between Generations

One of the most profound aspects of Barry’s return is the bridge it builds between different generations of Warriors fans and players. With legends like Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green entering the twilight of their careers, Barry’s presence as a figure of wisdom and continuity could prove vital.

Curry, who attended the press event, voiced his admiration:

“Rick Barry paved the way for all of us. Having him back with the team is inspiring. I can’t wait to soak up his knowledge and have his presence around this organization.”

Setting a New Standard

In addition to signaling a new chapter for the Golden State Warriors, Rick Barry’s ownership stake also highlights a broader trend in professional sports: empowering legendary players to take on leadership and ownership roles. As more franchises look to embrace their historic icons, Barry’s new role could serve as a model for how to meaningfully involve former players in shaping organizational identity.

Conclusion: The Return of a Warrior

Rick Barry’s return to the Golden State Warriors as co-owner marks a poetic and powerful chapter in one of the NBA’s most storied franchises. From leading the team to a championship in 1975 to now guiding its future from within the ownership group, Barry’s journey is a testament to enduring excellence, passion, and legacy.

His presence promises to infuse the franchise with wisdom, competitive fire, and a deep understanding of what it means to wear Warriors colors with pride.

In Barry’s own words:

“This is not the end of my story with the Warriors—it’s the beginning of a new one. Let’s build something even greater together.”