With the Warriors, Thurmond was an aggressive rebounder-defender who played at the forward position opposite superstar Wilt Chamberlain or was his backup at center. Despite playing on the same team as the dominant Chamberlain, Thurmond made an impact and was named to the NBA All-Rookie Team in 1964.

His jersey number, 42, has been retired by the Warriors and Cavaliers. Nate Thurmond was enshrined in the NBA Hall of Fame on July 1, 1985.