Hawks Fans Thank Warriors for Kuminga After Impressive Debut

The 23-year-old forward is thriving in a new role with the Hawks after being traded from Golden State.

Mar. 2, 2026 at 1:28pm

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In his first three games with the Atlanta Hawks, forward Jonathan Kuminga has been impressive, averaging career-highs of 21.3 points and 7.7 rebounds per game. Hawks fans have been chanting "Thank you Warriors" at home games, appreciating the team's decision to trade Kuminga, who appears to be flourishing in a new system under coach Quin Snyder. Kuminga has shown improved all-around play, including better rebounding, passing, and defense, in addition to his scoring ability.

Why it matters

Kuminga's strong start in Atlanta raises questions about the Warriors' decision to move on from the former 7th overall pick. The trade suggests Golden State may have struggled to properly develop and utilize Kuminga's talents, while the Hawks have quickly unlocked his potential in a new environment.

The details

In three games with the Hawks, Kuminga is averaging 21.3 points, 7.7 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and shooting 75.8% from the field. This is a significant increase from his per-game averages with the Warriors this season of 12.5 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.8 assists. Hawks coach Quin Snyder has emphasized transition play and given Kuminga more freedom to showcase his scoring ability, which has led to improved production across the board.

  • Kuminga made his Hawks debut on February 25, 2026.
  • The Hawks hosted the Blazers on March 2, 2026, where Kuminga had an impressive dunk display.

The players

Jonathan Kuminga

A 23-year-old forward who was traded from the Golden State Warriors to the Atlanta Hawks in February 2026.

Quin Snyder

The head coach of the Atlanta Hawks, who has provided Kuminga with a fresh start and emphasized playing to his strengths.

Mike Dunleavy

The general manager of the Golden State Warriors, who made the decision to trade Kuminga.

Dominique Wilkins

A legendary Hawks player and current broadcaster, who expressed surprise at the Warriors' decision to trade Kuminga.

Jalen Johnson

A Hawks player who shares similar traits with Kuminga and has also thrived under Snyder's coaching.

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What they’re saying

“Thank you Warriors”

— Hawks fans

“Thank you Golden State Warriors. We appreciate it. How you give up on a guy that young with that ability is beyond me.”

— Dominique Wilkins, Hawks broadcaster

“My teammates told me not to worry about anything. Just go out there and be you.”

— Jonathan Kuminga

What’s next

The Hawks will continue to monitor Kuminga's progress and development as he settles into his new role with the team. The team and fans will be eager to see if he can sustain this high level of play over the remainder of the season.

The takeaway

Kuminga's strong start in Atlanta suggests the Warriors may have mishandled his development, while the Hawks have quickly unlocked his potential by emphasizing his strengths. This trade could prove to be a major win for the Hawks and a missed opportunity for the Warriors if Kuminga continues to thrive in his new environment.