In a stunning move that sent ripples through the NBA, the Golden State Warriors made a bold decision just before the 2025-26 season tipped off, parting ways with two promising guards, including a 24-year-old NCAA champion. On Saturday afternoon, the Warriors announced they had waived LJ Cryer and Seth Curry, shaking up their roster as opening night loomed.
The team’s official statement was concise but heavy: “The Golden State Warriors have waived guards LJ Cryer and Seth Curry.” For Cryer, a standout from the University of Houston, the news marked a gut-wrenching end to his bid for a spot on the Dubs’ final roster.
Cryer, a New Orleans native, showcased his potential during the preseason, appearing in five games and averaging 5.0 points, 1.8 assists, and 1.6 rebounds in just 9.6 minutes per contest. While those numbers might seem modest, they don’t tell the full story of his electrifying shot-making ability. Undrafted in the 2025 NBA Draft, Cryer caught the Warriors’ eye after signing a training camp deal on September 29, following a solid showing in the NBA 2K26 Summer League.
A champion with Baylor in 2021, Cryer’s collegiate career was defined by his sharpshooting prowess. Over his time at Baylor and Houston, he posted an impressive 13.5 points per game, shooting 42.7% from the field and a sizzling 41.3% from beyond the arc. His evolution from a supporting role as a freshman to a lethal scoring threat as a sophomore cemented his reputation as a clutch performer, making him an intriguing prospect for Golden State.
One of Cryer’s standout moments came during the Warriors’ miraculous comeback victory against the Portland Trail Blazers in the preseason. The 6-foot guard erupted for 14 points, shooting an astonishing 80% from the field and a perfect 100% from three-point range. His performance off the bench was a spark that fueled the Dubs’ rally, showcasing the kind of impact he could have in the right system.
Despite his flashes of brilliance, the Warriors’ front office made the tough call to cut Cryer loose, determining he didn’t fit into their final roster plans for the 2025-26 season. The decision leaves the young guard searching for a new opportunity to prove himself in the NBA, whether in the G League or with another franchise eager to harness his scoring talent.
For Dub Nation, the move is a reminder of the cutthroat nature of roster decisions, even for a team known for its championship pedigree. As the Warriors gear up for the season, all eyes will be on how this roster shakeup shapes their pursuit of another title. For LJ Cryer, the journey is far from over—his next chapter awaits, and his sharpshooting spark could light up the league yet.