DeMarcus Cousins claims Steve Kerr hurt his relationship with Kuminga by benching him in key moments.

Former NBA All-Star DeMarcus Cousins is stirring the pot — and drawing attention to a growing concern in the Bay Area — after claiming that Steve Kerr damaged his relationship with rising star Jonathan Kuminga by consistently benching the young forward during crucial game moments.

In a recent interview on a podcast, Cousins didn’t hold back when discussing the internal dynamics of the Golden State Warriors.

“You can’t keep telling a young player he’s important, then pull him off the floor when it matters most,” Cousins said. “That messes with a guy mentally. Kuminga was balling — and still getting benched late. That affects trust.”

The Tension Behind the Scenes

While Steve Kerr has praised Kuminga’s growth publicly, sources close to the team have hinted that the young forward felt frustrated with his role, especially during the 2023–24 season when he would often sit in crunch time — even after strong performances.

Kuminga’s breakout year — where he averaged over 18 points per game and showcased defensive versatility — was shadowed by inconsistent minutes late in games. Many fans and analysts questioned Kerr’s reliance on veterans like Andrew Wiggins or Draymond Green, even when Kuminga had the hot hand.

Cousins, who briefly played under Kerr with the Warriors in 2018–19, suggested that Kerr’s coaching philosophy may not always align with player development.

“Steve is great for veterans who already know their role. But for young guys trying to prove themselves? It can be hard. Kuminga needed trust — not a leash.”

Impact on Kuminga’s Future?

The comments have reignited speculation about Kuminga’s long-term future with the franchise. Despite his potential, some insiders believe the relationship between player and coach has grown tense, leading to trade rumors this summer — including speculation around a possible blockbuster deal involving Giannis Antetokounmpo or DeMar DeRozan.

Kuminga himself has remained professional in interviews but has subtly hinted at his desire for a “bigger role” and “consistency.”

Meanwhile, Kerr has defended his rotations, saying:

“We’re trying to win games. Every decision is about what gives us the best chance in the moment. JK has been great, and he’s going to keep growing.”

The Bigger Picture

Cousins’ comments might come from a place of empathy — as a player who once felt misunderstood by coaching staffs — but they shine a light on a challenge the Warriors are now facing: how to balance the urgency of winning now with the need to empower the next generation.

With Curry still playing at an elite level, the franchise has little room for internal drama. But if Kuminga feels undervalued, it could force the Warriors to make a franchise-defining decision sooner than they expected.