How Kerr Influenced Looney's First 3-Pointer in Four Years vs. Spurs

Kevon Looney, primarily known for his rebounding and interior defense, stepped outside his usual role in the Warriors' decisive 148-106 victory over the Spurs. With the game well in hand during the fourth quarter, coach Steve Kerr saw an opportunity to reward Looney's offseason efforts.

"Steve finally drew up a play for me, so I had to shoot it," Looney told reporters post-game. "He drew it up for me, he asked me, did I want one. I said, 'Yeah.'" The successful shot validated the hundreds of practice threes Looney reportedly took daily over the summer, aiming to add another dimension to his game.

The reaction from the Warriors' bench was perhaps as memorable as the shot itself. Teammates jumped out of their seats in celebration, a clear sign of their support for the veteran center. Looney, however, maintained his composure on the court, later joking, "I didn't get to see it yet. I didn't want to look, I wanted to act like I've been there before." Teammate Brandin Podziemski, who had a career night himself with seven threes, confirmed the team had been encouraging Looney to shoot from outside.

Interestingly, coach Kerr seemed confident this moment might arrive. Before a subsequent game against the Grizzlies just days later (where Looney hit *another* three, this time a buzzer-beater), Kerr mentioned Looney's hard work and suggested a scenario where he might take a corner three could happen soon. While it's unlikely Looney will suddenly become a high-volume shooter, these moments demonstrate his expanded skillset and the coaching staff's willingness to utilize it.

How long had it been since Kevon Looney's last 3-pointer before the Spurs game?

It had been over four years. His previous made three-pointer was on March 19, 2021.

Was the play specifically designed for Looney to shoot a three?

Yes, coach Steve Kerr confirmed he drew up the play specifically to get Looney an open look from the perimeter and asked Looney if he wanted to take the shot.

Has Looney been working on his three-point shot?

Yes, reports indicate Looney dedicated significant time during the offseason to improving his outside shooting, taking hundreds of practice shots daily.

Is Looney expected to start shooting more threes regularly?

While he has shown he *can* make them and has worked on it, it's unclear if it will become a frequent part of his offensive game. It likely remains a situational option, but his recent makes show increased confidence.

It was a fun moment seeing Looney connect from deep! Do you think we'll see Kevon Looney take and make more three-pointers in meaningful game situations down the stretch?

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