Al Horford has picked out one of the younger players on the Golden State Warriors roster who he hopes will make a difference.

At 40 years old, Al Horford is a player who the Golden State Warriors will need to use sensibly this season. And the same applies to Draymond Green, 36.

Both players will divide up minutes at the center position. Kristaps Porzingis is out indefinitely with illness. But another younger player could have a role too, 25 year old Charles Bassey.

Bassey signed for the Warriors in April and ended up playing 13 games. He signed a one-year deal with the Warriors in the offseason and will provide useful depth.

Speaking after the Warriors’ final preseason game, Horford told a press conference that he sees a real difference with Bassey behind the scenes.

Horford said: “No question. Last season what caught my attention with him was how how hard he competed and played, and I think that this year he’s more comfortable.

“He seems much more confident and he brings that energy and and that physicality that we need inside. So, it is a more positive transition from from last year to this year.”

Charles Bassey has chance to succeed

Charles Bassey was drafted by the 76ers in 2021 before being waived a year later and joining the San Antonio Spurs.

Bassey spent three seasons with the Spurs and played 90 games, with his progress delayed by a torn ACL.

He has bounced around the league since with the Grizzlies, 76ers again, and the Celtics, before his stint with the Warriors at the end of last season.

Bassey is a useful fit for Golden State because he has a blend of youth and enough experience to know what it takes to play in the NBA. His energy will be useful when the Warriors are trying to conserve the minutes of their older stars, or even give them the night off.

Horford’s comments show that Bassey is feeling more at home on the Warriors now, and his role will be one to watch as the season progresses.