BREAKING NEWS: Warriors’ James Undergoes Surgery on Left Shooting Wrist, Faces Recovery Period
In a significant development for the Golden State Warriors, forward Jonathan James has undergone successful surgery on his left wrist — his shooting hand — the team announced late Thursday. The injury, sustained during a high-intensity workout earlier this month, has raised concerns about his availability for the upcoming season.
The surgical procedure, performed by the team’s medical staff in collaboration with top orthopedic specialists in San Francisco, aimed to repair ligament damage that was more severe than initially anticipated. While the surgery was deemed successful, James is expected to miss a substantial portion of the offseason training and potentially the start of the regular season.
James, 24, has been a rising star within the Warriors organization, showcasing a blend of athleticism, scoring prowess, and defensive tenacity. Last season, he averaged 14.7 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game, carving out a key role in the team’s rotation and earning praise from both coaching staff and teammates for his evolving leadership on and off the court.
“This is a tough break for James and for us as a team,” said Warriors head coach Steve Kerr. “He’s been working incredibly hard this summer. Thankfully, the surgery went well, and we’re confident he’ll come back stronger.”
The injury is especially notable given that it affects James’ shooting hand, which could present additional challenges during his rehabilitation. Recovery timelines for such wrist surgeries vary, but the team anticipates a 6–8 week period before he can resume basketball activities, with a full return to game action expected by midseason if all progresses smoothly.
Warriors General Manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. emphasized that the team will support James throughout the recovery process, noting that his long-term development remains a priority. “We’re in no rush,” Dunleavy said. “His health is what matters most. We believe in his potential, and we’ll give him all the time and resources he needs.”
James took to social media shortly after the announcement, thanking fans for their support and expressing optimism about his recovery. “It’s a setback, but I’m locked in. I’ll be back and better. Appreciate all the love,” he wrote on Instagram.
As the Warriors prepare for the 2025–26 campaign, James’ absence will open opportunities for younger players to step up in training camp. Still, the team remains hopeful that his return will bolster their playoff aspirations when the time comes.