The Golden State Warriors have drafted players from Bowling Green, showcasing their diverse talent acquisition strategy. Notable alumni have significantly contributed to the team's success over the years.
Key points
Golden State Warriors draft players from various colleges
Bowling Green alumni have contributed to the Warriors
Johnny Payak is a notable player drafted from Bowling Green
Bowling GreenGolden State WarriorsJohnny Payak
The Golden State Warriors have put together their teams through a variety of ways over the years, yet few approaches have proven as successful as the NBA draft. More than anything else, the most talented players to represent the Warriors have arrived in Golden State either by being selected directly in the annual draft or through trades executed on that same night.
The Golden State Warriors have taken many of their top stars through the draft, but have also landed a number of notable players over the years as well. From tiny colleges to blue blood programs, these alumni have contributed significantly to the team's roster over the years. So, we chose to take a closer look at which Dubs came from which schools over the years.
So without further ado, let's take a look at every player who has been drafted by the Warriors out of Bowling Green.
Johnny Payak - guard
Sep 15, 2017; Culver City, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors jerseys on display during the Nike and Sony press conference at Sony Studios. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 15, 2017; Culver City, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors jerseys on display during the Nike and Sony press conference at Sony Studios. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports
Draft year and position: 11th round (10th pick, 76th overall), 1963 NBA Draft
Seasons at Bowling Green: unknown
Seasons played with Warriors: did not make the team
Nate Thurmond - center
Q&A
Which players from Bowling Green have been drafted by the Golden State Warriors?
The Golden State Warriors have drafted Johnny Payak from Bowling Green.
How has the NBA draft influenced the Golden State Warriors' roster?
The NBA draft has been a key method for the Warriors to acquire top talent, contributing significantly to their roster success.
What is the significance of drafting players from smaller colleges like Bowling Green?
Drafting from smaller colleges like Bowling Green allows the Warriors to discover unique talent that can enhance their team dynamics.
Related Articles
NBA·Recap
Murray's FT dominance irks Wolves, lifts Nuggets
Jamal Murray scored 30 points and set a franchise record by making all 16 free throw attempts in the Nuggets' 116-105 win over the Timberwolves in Game 1 of the playoffs. The victory gives Denver a 1-0 lead in the series.
ESPN News··1 min read
MLB
Mets' Tobias Myers to start series finale vs. Cubs instead of David Peterson
Tobias Myers will start for the Mets against the Cubs, taking over for David Peterson.
Yahoo Sports··1 min read
NBA·Recap
NBA playoffs 2026: Nuggets, suddenly healthy, show Timberwolves and the West they're going to be a tough out
Nuggets rally despite early struggles against Timberwolves in playoff opener.
Yahoo Sports··1 min read
Sports
Cubs Minor League Wrap: Pelicans blast past Cannon Ballers
Cubs Minor League Wrap: Pelicans shut out Cannon Ballers 6-0
Yahoo Sports··1 min read
MLB·Recap
Andre Pallante’s Strong Effort, Cardinals 3 Home Runs Beat Astros 7-5
Cardinals beat Astros 7-5, powered by Pallante and three home runs!
Yahoo Sports··1 min read
Sports
Chris Sale leads the way in 3-1 victory over Philadelphia
Chris Sale leads Braves to a 3-1 victory over Phillies, improving their record to 14-7.
See every story in Sports — including breaking news and analysis.
March 10, 1973; Atlanta, GA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Golden State Warriors center Nate Thurmond (42) in action against the Atlanta Hawks at The Omni during the 1972-73 season. Also pictured is Warriors forward Cazzie Russell (32). Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
March 10, 1973; Atlanta, GA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Golden State Warriors center Nate Thurmond (42) in action against the Atlanta Hawks at The Omni during the 1972-73 season. Also pictured is Warriors forward Cazzie Russell (32). Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
Draft year and position: first round (third pick, third overall), 1963 NBA Draft
Seasons at Bowling Green: three
Seasons played with Warriors: 11 - Hall of Fame
Walt Piatkowski - forward
Sep 15, 2017; Culver City, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors jerseys on display during the Nike and Sony press conference at Sony Studios. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 15, 2017; Culver City, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors jerseys on display during the Nike and Sony press conference at Sony Studios. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports
Draft year and position: eighth round (seventh pick, 99th overall), 1968 NBA Draft
Seasons at Bowling Green: three
Seasons played with Warriors: did not make the team
All stats and data courtesy of Basketball Reference.