Jonathan Kuminga: The Congolese Connection
By Jalen Rose
Jonathan Kuminga is a Congolese professional basketball player for the Golden State Warriors of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He was a consensus five-star recruit and the best small forward in the 2021 class.
Kuminga was born in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and moved to the United States with his family when he was six years old. He began playing basketball at a young age and quickly developed into a top prospect.
Kuminga played high school basketball at The Patrick School in New Jersey, where he was a two-time Gatorade Player of the Year. He was also named the 2021 Naismith High School Player of the Year.
After graduating from high school, Kuminga committed to play college basketball at Duke University. However, he reclassified to the 2021 NBA draft and was selected seventh overall by the Warriors.
Kuminga made his NBA debut in the Warriors' season opener against the Los Angeles Lakers. He scored 12 points in 18 minutes off the bench.
Kuminga is a versatile player who can play both forward positions. He is a good scorer, rebounder, and defender. He is also a talented passer and can create for others.
Kuminga is still only 20 years old, but he has already shown that he has the potential to be a star in the NBA. He is a key part of the Warriors' young core and is expected to play a big role in their future success.