MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — In a dazzling display of skill and determination, Stephen Curry scored 52 points, including a remarkable 12 three-pointers, leading the Golden State Warriors to a thrilling 134-125 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies on Tuesday night. Curry's performance not only secured the win but also etched his name into the NBA history books with several record-breaking feats.
Curry's shooting prowess was on full display as he went 16 of 31 from the field, with an impressive 12 of 20 from beyond the arc. His first-half performance was particularly sensational, where he netted 32 points, hitting 11 of 16 shots and 8 of 10 from three-point range. After one of his many three-pointers in the half, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr could only shake his head in disbelief at the display of talent.
“I just try to stay in the moment and let the game come to me,” Curry said after the game. “I was feeling it tonight, and my teammates did a great job finding me.”
Jimmy Butler also contributed significantly to the Warriors' success, scoring 27 points and adding 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Draymond Green had a stellar all-around game with 13 points, 10 rebounds, and 12 assists, showcasing his playmaking ability and defensive prowess.
For the Grizzlies, Ja Morant led the charge with 36 points and 6 assists, while Jaren Jackson Jr. added 22 points and 7 rebounds. Despite their efforts, Memphis could not overcome the Warriors' offensive onslaught and fell to 44-32, marking their third consecutive loss. Zach Edey also made an impact with 10 points and 16 rebounds, but it wasn't enough to halt the Grizzlies' slide in the standings.
The victory propelled the Warriors to a 44-31 record, allowing them to leapfrog Memphis into fifth place in the competitive Western Conference. The Warriors have been on a roll, going 3-2 on their current road trip and looking to build momentum as the playoffs approach.
Key moments in the game included a crucial play with just 1:13 left on the clock. Curry missed a three-pointer, but Brandin Podziemski was quick to tip in the rebound, extending the Warriors' lead to 127-122. This pivotal moment underscored the team’s resilience and determination to secure the win.
In addition to the victory, Curry's performance set several milestones. He became the first player in NBA history to record 50+ points, 10+ three-pointers made, and 5+ steals in a single game. This was also Curry's 15th career 50-point game, surpassing legends like LeBron James and Rick Barry, and tying him with Damian Lillard for the sixth most in NBA history. Furthermore, this marked his 10th career game with 50+ points and 10+ three-pointers, a record that he holds alone.
“It’s just about being in the right place at the right time,” Curry added. “I’ve had great teammates who have helped me along the way.”
As the Warriors look ahead, they will conclude their six-game road trip in Los Angeles against the Lakers on Thursday. Meanwhile, the Grizzlies will begin a three-game road trip against Eastern Conference teams, starting in Miami.
The match showcased the thrilling nature of NBA basketball, with both teams displaying high levels of skill and competitiveness. As the playoffs loom closer, both the Warriors and Grizzlies will be looking to solidify their positions in the standings, making every game crucial.
With Curry leading the charge, the Warriors are proving to be a force to reckon with in the Western Conference, while the Grizzlies will need to regroup quickly to halt their downward trend.
