Al Horford Leaves Celtics, Signs Multiyear Deal with Warriors
Written by b87fm on 10/01/2025
Veteran big man Al Horford is officially headed to the Bay. The 39-year-old free agent has agreed to a multiyear deal with the Golden State Warriors, his agent Jason Glushon confirmed to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
According to reports, Horford will step in as Golden State’s starting center as he enters his 19th NBA season.
The Warriors made Horford a top priority early in free agency, ESPN’s Anthony Slater noted, but the final details of the contract are still being worked out as the team manages restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga’s situation.
Al Horford was the veteran stretch center the Warriors’ targeted early in free agency. Business still needs to get sorted with Kuminga to finalize Horford’s exact contract, but he is a multi-year part of their plans. https://t.co/qKN5zMbxjE
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) September 28, 2025
Horford’s decision comes on the heels of a major shakeup in Boston. The Celtics are dealing with Jayson Tatum’s torn Achilles along with the departures of Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis. Those changes factored into Horford’s exit after spending seven of the last nine years in Boston, where he helped deliver the franchise’s 18th NBA championship in 2024.
Still, the move wasn’t easy. Horford posted a heartfelt thank-you to Boston fans and the Celtics organization, calling the city his “second home.”
— Al Horford (@Al_Horford) September 28, 2025
Golden State believes Horford’s size, shooting, passing, and defensive IQ make him an ideal complement to Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green. Despite his age, Horford remains one of the league’s most versatile defenders and was even weighing retirement before ultimately committing to the Warriors.
Drafted third overall in 2007, Horford has been a steady force throughout his career, earning five All-Star nods, an All-NBA selection, and an All-Defensive Team honor. He’s also known for his postseason success, with multiple trips to the Eastern Conference Finals and two NBA Finals appearances — including Boston’s 2022 loss to Golden State and their title win in 2024.
Horford isn’t the only addition expected in Golden State. De’Anthony Melton and Gary Payton II are reportedly set to sign in the coming days, while Seth Curry — Stephen’s younger brother — has also been linked to the team.
The Warriors are also managing two unsigned second-round picks, Will Richard and Alex Toohey, and still hold a qualifying offer for two-way guard Taran Armstrong.
