The Golden State Warriors secured a thrilling 117-113 victory over the San Antonio Spurs at Frost Bank Center on Sunday night, propelled by a remarkable 37-point third quarter performance.
Despite facing an early 13-point deficit, the Warriors orchestrated an impressive turnaround, ultimately establishing a commanding 13-point lead with just four minutes remaining in the game. However, the Spurs put up a resilient fight, making it challenging for the Warriors to secure the win.
As Golden State held a 113-102 lead, San Antonio mounted a fierce comeback, scoring nine consecutive points to narrow the gap to just two points with 59 seconds left on the clock. Nevertheless, a pivotal 3-pointer from Klay Thompson, following an offensive rebound by Draymond Green, once again extended the Warriors’ lead to more than two possessions in the final minute. The game was effectively sealed when Draymond Green sunk a free throw in the closing seconds, securing a four-point lead for the Dubs.
Head coach Steve Kerr lauded Green’s exceptional performance, particularly highlighting his defensive prowess and the crucial offensive rebound that set up Thompson’s game-changing 3-pointer. Kerr emphasized Green’s defensive brilliance, describing him as a defensive genius.
Stephen Curry led the scoring for the Warriors with an impressive 33 points, while Draymond Green delivered an all-around stellar performance, contributing 21 points, 11 assists, six rebounds, and six steals.
Draymond Green’s impact was felt across the court, as he notched 21 points, 11 assists, six rebounds, and six steals while shooting an outstanding 88.9% from the field (8-for-9). His remarkable performance marked a historic achievement, as he became the first player since 1987 to record over 20 points, 11 assists, 6 rebounds, 6 steals, and shoot over 80% from the field. Green’s game-clinching free throw with 3.9 seconds remaining was pivotal in securing the Warriors’ victory.
Warriors’ rookie Moses Moody commended Green’s exceptional display, acknowledging his contributions on both ends of the court, from defense and scoring to rebounding. Additionally, Green’s milestone of tying Chris Mullin for the second-most games played (807) in Warriors franchise history further underscored his enduring impact on the team.
The Warriors’ dominance was particularly evident in the third quarter, as they embarked on a remarkable 14-0 run to overturn an eight-point deficit and establish a six-point lead. Draymond Green played a pivotal role in this surge, contributing seven points, including a crucial corner three-pointer. The Warriors’ suffocating defense also held the Spurs to a scoreless start in the third quarter, as they limited San Antonio to 0-for-8 shooting in the initial 3 minutes and 51 seconds.
The third quarter ultimately proved to be a turning point, as the Warriors outscored the Spurs 37-21, with both Draymond Green and Stephen Curry leading the charge.
