Warriors' Kristaps Porzingis Likely Out vs Hawks Due to Back Spasms

Porzingis explains how the back issue progressed during the Pistons game, casting doubt on his availability for the Hawks matchup.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 4:07am

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Golden State Warriors forward Kristaps Porzingis left the team's loss to the Detroit Pistons with lower back soreness and spasms. Porzingis described how the issue started in the first quarter and worsened as the game went on, leading to his early exit. The big man noted he's dealt with back problems earlier in his career but has learned to manage them, and expects the current issue to resolve quickly. However, Porzingis said it's "probably" unlikely he'll play in the Warriors' upcoming game against the Atlanta Hawks as the team continues to take a cautious approach with his health.

Why it matters

Porzingis has struggled with injuries throughout his NBA career, and the Warriors have been carefully managing his minutes and workload this season. His back spasms are the latest setback, coming just as he was starting to find a rhythm and the team was planning to increase his playing time. The Warriors will now likely be without their starting center against the Hawks, making an already difficult road trip even tougher.

The details

In the second quarter against the Pistons, Porzingis said he "kind of started feeling it from the first quarter" and the back spasms worsened, especially on a play where he reached up to deflect a pass. He noted the issue tightened up even more after he cooled down following his exit from the game. Porzingis has dealt with back problems earlier in his career but believes he's gotten better at managing them, though this latest flare-up will likely keep him out of the Warriors' next game.

  • Porzingis first started feeling back soreness in the first quarter of the March 20, 2026 game against the Detroit Pistons.
  • The back spasms worsened on a specific play in the second quarter, leading Porzingis to exit the game.
  • The Warriors' next game is a March 21, 2026 matchup against the Atlanta Hawks.

The players

Kristaps Porzingis

A 7'3" power forward/center for the Golden State Warriors who has dealt with various injury issues throughout his NBA career.

Paul Reed

The starting center for the Detroit Pistons, who was involved in the play that triggered Porzingis's back spasms.

Jonathan Kuminga

A forward who was recently traded from the Warriors to the Atlanta Hawks, setting up a reunion matchup between the two teams.

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What they’re saying

“I kind of started feeling it from the first quarter. Started spasming out a bit, [so] I tried to move. While I was warm, I was okay, but on that one play, I kind of felt a little spasm there.”

— Kristaps Porzingis

“Honestly, I'm pretty good at managing and keeping my back strong so I'm sure it will go away quickly. It's a little tight right now. Once I cooled down, it tightened up even more. But I'm sure I'll get it going soon.”

— Kristaps Porzingis

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.