Basketball fans, buckle up — the Golden State Warriors just flipped the script in a game that had it all: comebacks, clutch shots, and a ticket to the playoffs! After going 0-3 in previous play-in tournaments, the Dubs finally scored their first win when it mattered most, toppling the Memphis Grizzlies 121-116 at the iconic Chase Center.
A Play-In Thriller to Remember
Is there anything better than Steph Curry lighting it up in the fourth quarter? Well, maybe Jimmy Butler dropping 38 points in a high-stakes showdown. Both stars showed up big-time in this nail-biting game where momentum swung like a pendulum.
It was one for the books — a contest that had Warriors fans on the edge of their seats and the Grizzlies clawing back from a 20-point deficit. But in the end, it was Golden State’s composure (and Curry’s cool) that made the difference.
Stars of the Night: Curry and Butler Shine Bright
Let’s break it down:
- 🏀 Jimmy Butler: 38 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists, 3 steals
- 🏀 Steph Curry: 37 points (15 in the fourth!), 8 rebounds, 4 assists
Talk about a dynamic duo. While Butler kept the Warriors afloat with his sheer scoring prowess, it was Curry who slammed the door shut on the Grizzlies. Two huge threes — one from the corner, another from the wing — plus flawless free throws in the final seconds? That’s the stuff of legends.
And let’s not sleep on the supporting cast. Gary Payton II added a solid 12 points, with Quinten Post contributing 11.
The Grizzlies Fought Hard
To their credit, Memphis didn’t go down without a fight.
Desmond Bane led the Grizzlies with 30 points and served as their heartbeat in crunch time. Rookie Zach Edey showed immense poise with clutch rebounds and pressure free throws, and though Ja Morant was battling an ankle injury, he still chipped in a valiant 22 points.
The defining moment for Memphis wasn’t a basket — it was a missed chance. Down by three with 5.4 seconds left, Santi Aldama couldn’t get the inbound pass off. A heartbreaking turnover that perfectly captures the “what if” of playoff basketball.
What’s Next?
With this victory, the Warriors leap into the Western Conference playoffs as the seventh seed. Their first-round opponents? The high-flying, second-seeded Houston Rockets.
As for Memphis, their journey isn’t over just yet. They’ll face the winner of the Dallas Mavericks vs. Sacramento Kings play-in next, and the victor from that clash will secure the prized eighth seed.
Game on.
The Playoff Picture Just Got Interesting
Golden State is peaking at the right time, and their momentum couldn’t come at a better moment. If Curry continues playing like he did in the fourth quarter — heated, focused, unstoppable — watch out, Houston.
And hey, while you follow all the playoff action, keep your eyes open for more updates and insights right here. Whether it’s buzzer-beaters or surprise upsets, we’ll be breaking it all down.
For more basketball insights and the latest from the hardwood, swing by Panaad Stadium — your home for thrilling sports updates and in-depth game analysis.
🔥 Pro tip: Never count out the Warriors — especially when Steph is cooking.
Stay tuned. The road to the championship just got real.