Quinten Post’s Journey: From Draft Pick to Playoff Contributor

SAN FRANCISCO – Quinten Post is experiencing a whirlwind season as a player for the Golden State Warriors. From being a second-round pick in the NBA draft last June to a two-way contract in September, he made his NBA debut in December and has since started 14 games as a rookie. Now, he is a vital part of the Warriors’ playoff push.

“Yeah, it’s crazy,” Post told NBC Sports Bay Area. “Back then I was just trying to prove anything. That I could fit or belong. And now there’s a real responsibility on my shoulders. I have an impact on winning or losing.”

Post’s playoff journey began on Sunday against the Houston Rockets, where he struggled with just 12 minutes of play and no points. However, he rebounded in Game 2, scoring 12 points on 4-of-8 shooting, trailing only Stephen Curry, who had 20 points.

Despite his improved performance, Post expressed frustration over rebounding. The Warriors were beaten on the boards, with Houston claiming 52 rebounds to Golden State’s 36 in Game 1 and 47 to 33 in Game 2. “We just have to limit that and play to our strengths,” he said. “I need to become better at rebounding. One thousand percent.”

Houston’s size, featuring 6-foot-11 Steven Adams and Alperen Şengün, has challenged the Warriors. Post noted, “When I come off the bench, that’s something I need to get better at.” Houston’s rebounding advantage granted them 17 more field goal attempts over the two games.

As the series evolves, Post acknowledges the intensity of playoff basketball. “It’s very physical, so I do see differences,” he said. “They probably bumped up the physicality in Game 2.”

Post, 25, grew up in the Netherlands idolizing Dirk Nowitzki and has unexpectedly found himself amongst NBA legends. His ability to shoot, evidenced by a 44.9 percent accuracy from three-point range, makes him a valuable asset on a team centered around Curry. “I don’t think anybody was expecting us to outrebound them,” he admitted. “But I need to be better, and as a team we need to do better.”

The Warriors head into Game 3 motivated to match the Rockets’ physicality and improve their rebounding efforts.