Golden State Warriors guard Moses Moody developed his skill in drawing charges early in his basketball journey, thanks to a unique incentive from his sixth-grade AAU coach. Moody revealed on The Young Man and The Three podcast that his coach offered each player $1 for every charge they took during games, a challenge that sparked Moody’s competitive spirit and desire to earn some extra money.
The whole team, whoever take a charge they get a dollar,
Moody said.
So yeah, once I heard that, I’m trying to get a charge every play. I’m trying to get some Skittles at the vending machine after the game.
—Moses Moody
Turning a Simple Challenge into Consistent Rewards
Moody’s charge-taking hustle didn’t go unnoticed or unrewarded, and he admitted that he ended up making a significant amount through this playful yet effective incentive. When asked how much he earned, Moody joked that his coach might have considered stopping the program due to the growing costs.
He might even stop doing it ’cause I was running up the check,
Moody added. —Moses Moody
The charge challenge continued beyond AAU, extending into Moody’s high school years. His trainer, Jimmy, also ran a similar competition, rewarding the player who recorded the most charges with a steak dinner at the end of the season. Moody proudly took that honor as well.
When I got to high school, my trainer, Jimmy, he did it with the high school team,
Moody stated.
They said whoever got the most charges, he would take them out to dinner. Like a steak dinner and stuff after the season. And I won that too. So, if I got a reason, I’ll do it.
—Moses Moody
How Hustling for Charges Helped Shape His NBA Career
Though extra cash and steak dinners served as initial motivations, Moody’s dedication to drawing charges translated into a valuable skill admired by the Golden State Warriors staff and fans alike. Known for his hard work and willingness to sacrifice his body on defense, Moody has earned his place as a reliable two-way guard in the NBA.
In 2024, Moody secured a three-year contract extension worth $39 million after demonstrating steady progress during the 2024-25 season. That year, he averaged 9.8 points, 2.6 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 0.8 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game. Moody was also inserted into the starting lineup for the final 28 regular-season games, where the Warriors posted a 21-7 record.
While Moody lost his starting spot in the playoffs, his role within the team remains an area to watch. The offseason has been quiet for the Warriors at this point, with potential roster moves expected pending the resolution of Jonathan Kuminga’s situation, which could influence Moody’s position and playing time in the 2025-26 season.