From Lacrosse Legend to NBA Contributor: Pat Spencer Seizes His Moment With the Warriors

Key Points

• Former Tewaaraton Award winner Pat Spencer is emerging as a key contributor for the Golden State Warriors.

• The two-way guard delivered a career-high 19 points and seven assists in his first NBA start.

• Spencer has capitalized on injuries to Warriors stars, earning trust from head coach Steve Kerr.

• His unconventional path—from elite lacrosse to the NBA—has shaped a fearless, high-energy playing style.

• Recent performances suggest Spencer is carving out a sustainable role at the NBA level.

Pat Spencer’s Unlikely NBA Rise Gains Momentum in Golden State

Pat Spencer’s journey to the NBA has been anything but traditional. Once considered one of the greatest college lacrosse players of his generation, Spencer is now proving he belongs on an NBA floor with the Golden State Warriors.

After years of grinding through overseas leagues and the G League, the two-way guard is beginning to turn opportunity into impact—just as the Warriors need depth and energy most.

A Rare Athletic Pivot From Lacrosse to Basketball

Spencer first rose to national prominence at Loyola University Maryland, where he won the prestigious Tewaaraton Award as the top player in college lacrosse. Despite that success, basketball remained his long-term ambition.

He later transferred to Northwestern to pursue basketball full-time but went undrafted, forcing him to take the long road to the NBA. That path included international stints and G League battles before landing with Golden State, where he is now in his second season on a two-way contract.

Breakout Performances Amid Warriors Injuries

With Stephen Curry and Draymond Green sidelined, Spencer stepped into an expanded role and made it count. During a game against the Philadelphia 76ers, he announced his confidence to the crowd before backing it up on the court.

The following night against the Cleveland Cavaliers, Spencer made his first career NBA start. He finished with 19 points and seven assists, leading the Warriors to a critical 99–94 win while several regular starters rested.

Over a three-game stretch, Spencer totaled 52 points, signaling his growing comfort and confidence at the NBA level.

Steve Kerr and Teammates Take Notice

Warriors head coach Steve Kerr acknowledged Spencer’s steady growth, pointing to his competitiveness and improved offensive presence. While not asked to replace Curry’s star power, Spencer has become a dependable option who can keep the offense moving.

Teammates have echoed that sentiment. Trayce Jackson-Davis praised Spencer’s emotional authenticity and relentless drive, while others, including Gui Santos and Moses Moody, have openly supported his rise, embracing him as an energy booster in the locker room.

How His Lacrosse Roots Shape His NBA Game

Spencer’s background in lacrosse is evident in his style of play. He’s comfortable handling the ball, attacking space, and initiating contact—traits that translate well in pick-and-roll situations.

For a Warriors team that has occasionally struggled with offensive creativity, Spencer’s ability to penetrate defenses and create opportunities has filled an important gap.

What Happens Next?

As Golden State navigates injuries and rotation adjustments, Spencer’s recent performances have put him firmly on the coaching staff’s radar. If he continues to produce with consistency and energy, his role could expand beyond short-term necessity.

Pat Spencer is no longer viewed as a novelty crossover athlete. With each game, he is making a compelling case to be evaluated not by his lacrosse past—but by his growing NBA present.