Golden State Warriors Jersey Numbers: The Story Behind No. 19 and Bob Armstrong
When you think about the Golden State Warriors, what probably first comes to mind are legends like Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, or Draymond Green — players who helped define the modern NBA and bring multiple championships to the Bay Area. But the Warriors’ legacy runs much deeper and wider than just a handful of stars. Over more than 75 years, this franchise has seen more than 600 players suit up in over 60 different jersey numbers. That’s a ton of history, stories, and memories stitched into every number.
A Journey Through Time: From Philadelphia to San Francisco
The Warriors actually began way back in 1946 as part of the Basketball Association of America (BAA), which was a precursor to the NBA we know today. The team didn’t always call the Bay Area home. Originally, they were based in Philadelphia, then made stops in San Francisco and Oakland, with even a brief stint in San Diego. So, when you look at those jerseys, each number tells a story not just about the player, but about the city and era they represented.
To celebrate this rich heritage, Warriors Wire decided to take a deep dive into the history of the team’s jersey numbers and the players who wore them. Instead of just focusing on the superstars, we’re shining a light on all the athletes who rocked those jerseys—because every player contributed to the Warriors’ journey, no matter how long or short their time on the court was.
This article kicks off the series by exploring the No. 19 jersey — specifically, the seventh of 13 players to wear that number for the Warriors franchise. Let’s talk about Bob Armstrong, a name you might not know off the top of your head but who holds a unique place in Warriors history.
Who Was Bob Armstrong?
Bob Armstrong was a big man who played in the 1950s, a far cry from the flashy, high-flying style the Warriors showcase today. Armstrong’s basketball journey began at Michigan State, where he completed his college career before entering the professional ranks.
In the 1955 NBA Draft, he was selected 42nd overall—not by the Warriors, but by the Rochester Royals, the team now known as the Sacramento Kings. Drafted in the later rounds, Armstrong faced a challenging path to make an impact in the league. In fact, after being picked by the Royals, he ended up sitting out the following season, a move that was somewhat common at the time as players weighed options and teams figured out rosters.
Armstrong’s Time with the Warriors
Armstrong’s NBA career was brief but memorable for those who appreciate Warriors lore. He eventually signed with the Philadelphia Warriors—the very same franchise that would eventually become today’s Golden State Warriors.
His time on the court was short-lived, playing only 19 games in the NBA, all while wearing jersey No. 19. During those appearances, Armstrong averaged 1.5 points and 2.1 rebounds per game. These might not be superstar stats, but for a player in the 1950s, competing in an era with fewer games and a different style of play, every contribution counted.
Why Remember Players Like Bob Armstrong?
You might wonder why it’s worth diving into the story of a player with a relatively short NBA stint. The answer is simple: teams like the Warriors are built on legacies, not just highlights. Players like Armstrong are part of the fabric that makes the Warriors’ history so rich.
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Every jersey number has a story: From legends to role players, each number worn represents a chapter in the team’s ongoing narrative.
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The evolution of the franchise: Understanding the players from the early days in Philadelphia helps connect the dots to the Warriors we see today in San Francisco.
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Appreciating the journey: Not all careers are long or filled with accolades, but every player has an impact—whether on the court, in the locker room, or inspiring the next generation.
A Quick Look at No. 19’s Legacy
Bob Armstrong was actually the seventh player to wear No. 19 for the Warriors franchise. Over the years, thirteen players have worn that number, each bringing their own style and story. The number itself might not be the most famous jersey in Warriors history, but it’s a great example of how even lesser-known players contribute to the team’s identity.
Nuggets from the 1950s NBA Era
Here are some interesting points about the league during Armstrong’s time:
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The NBA was still finding its footing, having just merged with the BAA a few years earlier.
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The game was slower-paced and focused more on fundamentals, as opposed to the high-flying dunks and 3-point shooting that dominate today.
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Player salaries were nowhere near today’s astronomical figures; many players had offseason jobs to support themselves.
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Travel was tougher, and teams were scattered across different cities with varying facilities.
So, when you look at Armstrong’s brief career, it reflects a very different basketball world—one that laid the groundwork for everything the NBA and Warriors are now.
The Warriors Then and Now: A Snapshot
Today, the Golden State Warriors are synonymous with modern basketball excellence — revolutionizing the game with their sharpshooting and pace. But it all started with players like Armstrong who kept the team moving through its early phases.
Over 75 years, the Warriors have:
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Transitioned through four cities: Philadelphia, San Francisco, Oakland, and San Diego.
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Had over 600 players wear their jerseys.
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Seen over 60 different jersey numbers on the court.
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Won multiple NBA championships, including the recent dynasty years starting in the 2010s.
Every era has its heroes and its under-the-radar players, and jersey numbers help tell those stories.
Final Thoughts: Why Jersey Numbers Matter
If you’re a Warriors fan or just a basketball history buff, digging into the players who wore the jerseys is a fascinating way to appreciate the game’s history. Jersey No. 19 and Bob Armstrong are just a small piece of the puzzle, but they represent the dedication and passion of players from a time when basketball was still growing into the global sport it is today.
Remember, behind every number is a story — some filled with glory, others with quiet determination. It’s that mix that makes the Warriors franchise so legendary.
In summary:
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The Warriors have a storied history with 600+ players and 60+ jersey numbers.
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No. 19 is one of those numbers, worn by 13 players, including Bob Armstrong.
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Armstrong played briefly in the 1950s, after college at Michigan State.
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Though his stats were modest, he was part of the team’s early history.
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Understanding these players gives a richer perspective on the Warriors’ evolution.
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