Stephen Curry led the Golden State Warriors to a crucial 124-120 victory over the Brooklyn Nets, scoring 37 points, including shooting 6-8 from beyond the arc and making NBA history by becoming the first player ever to reach 3,500 total 3-pointers.
The game’s pivotal moment came in the fourth quarter, about five minutes in, with Curry scoring 10 points in under two minutes of gameplay, reenergizing a struggling team. Warriors coach Steve Kerr acknowledged Curry’s significant role in carrying the team, especially amidst recent challenges, including Draymond Green’s suspension.
“Steph has had to carry this team, let’s be honest,” Kerr said. “And then the Draymond [Green] news, he was emotionally spent the last few days. And it was a slow start tonight. Then, as he’s done so often, he flipped the switch. You can kind of see when it happens right away. And he was incredible.”
Despite leading by 18 points in the first half, the Warriors have struggled with maintaining leads, a trend that continued in this game. Brooklyn’s Cam Thomas scored 41 points, contributing to the Nets nearly overcoming the Warriors’ lead.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors Updates
In the fourth quarter, Curry’s extraordinary play, including three crucial 3-pointers, shifted the game’s momentum. His increased emotionality in recent games was evident, culminating in an intense celebration with teammate Gary Payton II.
Kerr credited Curry’s performance with boosting the team’s confidence, a sentiment echoed by Klay Thompson, who praised Curry’s determination and crucial role in the win. Thompson contributed 24 points, helping alleviate some of the pressure on Curry.
“[That sequence] gave us confidence,” Kerr said. “I think that’s the biggest issue when you’re struggling, maybe you’re a little spent. You have to find confidence. So I think Steph just infuses us with confidence.”
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors Updates
“He willed us to victory. We appreciate him. Hopefully tomorrow we can help shoulder the load a little more. He was special tonight, just his ability to create shots and make shots from all over the floor. … I am grateful for Steph’s performance tonight.”
Acknowledging the challenges of playing without Green, Curry emphasized the importance of teamwork and collective effort in winning games, noting the growing confidence within the team. This victory demonstrates Curry’s ability to play well and inspire and lead his team during crucial moments.
“It’s not just me. I can’t go win a game by myself,” Curry said. “I can play well, and I have to play well. I know that. But I don’t [play] the game by myself. There’s definitely pressure, and I live for those types of moments. But there are guys getting opportunities to step up. … Confidence is starting to build.”
On Sunday, the Warriors returned to action in a road matchup against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center.
