David West wrapped up his 14th NBA season in the best way possible — by notching his first-ever NBA title.
The 36-year-old will be a free agent in the coming days and there’s some question regarding if West will retire or keep playing. West is a two-time All-Star who has made nearly $90 million over his career and proved during the Warriors’ championship run that he can still be a contributor on a contending team. He now enters free agency as one a sound veteran option on the market and could surely command more than the $1.5 million base salary the Warriors paid him last season.
However, he has recently given some indication that free agency may not be in the cards for him this summer.
West appeared on the Uninterrupted’s Open Run Podcast with Jesse Williams and Stefan Marolachakis Thursday, and discussed his experience finally winning his first title with the Warriors. When they asked West about his plans for free agency, West said that he hasn’t made any decisions about his future just yet.
“I’m thinking about it,” West said. “I am kinda leaning towards playing again, probably just going to give it another few days or so. It’s one of those things, if I do keep playing it’s going to be out here because it’s such a great spot, I really enjoy the environment, I enjoy the vibe.”
It would make sense for West to stay with the Warriors if he does come back for next season. He fit perfectly as a role player off the bench for Golden State, and his intangible abilities as a leader in the locker room are valuable. The opportunity to win another title and play with a team that he gels with could entice West to stick around for another season.
However, if West does decide to retire, going out on top as a champion is certainly not the worst way to cap off a great NBA career.
