Having torn his ACL on January 19th, Jimmy Butler is out for the season — and likely a little bit of next season, too.
However, despite this, he is still incredibly dedicated to being a Golden State Warrior. Earlier this week, Butler sent this email to Warriors season ticket holders reminding them of how much he loves playing for Golden State:
“Dear Warriors Season Ticket Family,
I have played in front of many incredible crowds over my 15 seasons in the NBA, but there was always something about playing in the Bay Area that made it feel like more than just another game. It was always electric. So, when I received the phone call on February 5, 2025, that I had been traded to the Warriors, I knew it had a chance to be special. But even I wasn’t prepared for what it means to be part of Dub Nation, playing in front of the loudest, most loyal and dedicated fans in the NBA.
The energy you provided us down the stretch last year was magical, as we finished the season winning 23 of 31 games and, ultimately, clinching a playoff berth. And playing with Steph and all of my teammates in The Bay has been an incredible experience. Steph is truly the greatest shooter and showman of all time, and I am honored to be the Robin to his Batman. The energy you gave us during the first round against Houston was palpable, and further reinforced my desire to play through my Game 2 injury. It was your love, encouragement, and joy that helped me dig deep to play – and win – for this fanbase. Ultimately, last year’s playoffs left us with a big “what if,” as Steph’s injury was too much for us to overcome in the Western Conference Semifinals vs. Minnesota. But we knew what we had and were eager to play meaningful basketball once again this season.
After a roller coaster start to this season, we were finally rounding into form in mid-January, winning 12 of 16 games, looking like the playoff contender we envisioned and the NBA feared. Every NBA season is a puzzle and we were beginning to figure ours out. Unfortunately, on January 19 against Miami, I tore my ACL. I was/am devastated. For me, for my teammates, and for all of you. After being in this league for as long as I have — 15 years now — you eventually realize that you only have a certain number of these golden opportunities. We had that opportunity this year in a league filled with parity and a team full of promise. Nonetheless, we move forward and will continue to battle our way to the postseason. I am excited to see my guys compete for the remainder of this season, but also heartbroken to know that I will not be out there with them. They’re my brothers.
Despite experiencing almost every emotion over the last 12 months — from the highs of the fourth most wins in the NBA to the lows of a pair of season-ending injuries — your support has been unwavering. I can see clearly now why you, our Warriors season ticket family, are known as the best fans in the NBA. You are our most loyal supporters, and your incredible energy is the fuel that drives this team.
I can promise you that I will attack my rehab with a singular focus that will enable me to get back to playing the game that I love, in front of the fans that I have grown to love and appreciate. My life has shown me repeatedly that when something happens that is out of my control, all I can do is work and wait for the answer and the why. Both have always been shown to me, and this time will be no different. This story, which has been interrupted twice, is not complete. Not by a long shot. This period is simply a part of our journey. I can’t wait to see what next season holds and will treasure the opportunity to put my jersey back on and take the court with Steph, Dray, and the rest of the guys, in front of you all. I’m sure that when I return and hear all of you in unison chant “WAAAAARRRRRRIIIIORRRSSSSS,” it will push me forward and provide an incredible adrenaline rush.
I am the author of my story. I always have been and I always will be. I look forward to you all continuing this journey with me and with us. If you have learned anything about me over our year-plus together, it’s that I am never hard to find.
I will be back, and I need you back, too. Here’s to what’s ahead.
Go Dubs”
Since being acquired by the Warriors in January of 2025 (after a lengthy and dramatic saga with the Miami Heat), Butler has played in 68 games and has become a fan-favorite player both on and off the court. Even at age 36, he was still a valuable asset for the Warriors up until his ACL tear, putting up an average of 20 points per game. Hopefully, Butler will stay a Warrior after his recovery — he certainly seems dead-set on it, based on what he said in his email.