The Minnesota Timberwolves and the Golden State Warriors are set to clash in a pivotal Game 3 of the NBA Western Conference semifinals on Saturday, May 10, 2025, with the series tied at one game apiece. The action unfolds at the Chase Center in San Francisco, starting at 8:30 PM ET, and fans can catch all the excitement on ABC or stream it live via FuboTV.
After a stunning 117-93 loss in Game 2, the Warriors return home hoping to regain their footing. The absence of two-time league MVP Stephen Curry, who is sidelined with a hamstring injury, continues to loom large over the team. Curry's injury has been a significant blow for Golden State, as they look to navigate the playoffs without their star player. He won’t be re-evaluated until after Game 4, putting additional pressure on the remaining roster to step up.
In Game 2, the Timberwolves capitalized on Curry's absence, showcasing their offensive prowess. Julius Randle was the standout performer, pouring in 24 points while also contributing seven rebounds and 11 assists. Rising star Anthony Edwards added 20 points, nine rebounds, and five assists, proving he can be a reliable option in high-stakes situations. Nickeil Alexander-Walker also made a mark, scoring 20 points in a performance that surprised many.
On the Warriors' side, the team struggled to find their rhythm without Curry. Jonathan Kuminga emerged as a bright spot, scoring 18 points, but overall, the Warriors' offense was hindered. Star player Jimmy Butler had a quiet outing, finishing with only 17 points and seven rebounds, which was not enough to lift the team past the Timberwolves in Game 2.
As the series shifts back to San Francisco, the Warriors are hopeful that playing at home will provide the boost they need. The Chase Center crowd is known for its electric atmosphere, and the Warriors will look to harness that energy to regain control of the series. The stakes couldn't be higher; a win would put them back in the driver's seat, while a loss could spell disaster for their playoff hopes.
As the game progresses, every possession will be crucial. The Warriors will need to find ways to score without relying on the three-point shot, especially after failing to make a single three-pointer in the first half of Game 3, a first for the franchise since 2007. This statistic highlights the urgency for the Warriors to adapt their strategy and find alternative scoring methods.
In the third quarter of Game 3, the Warriors managed to take a slim lead, 67-62, showcasing their resilience. Butler found his shooting touch, hitting a corner three that energized the crowd. Meanwhile, Kuminga continued to assert himself, making an acrobatic dunk that had fans on their feet. With Draymond Green in foul trouble, the Warriors faced challenges but managed to maintain their composure.
The Timberwolves, however, were not backing down. Edwards, who had struggled early in the game, began to heat up, driving to the rim and scoring crucial points to keep Minnesota competitive. The back-and-forth nature of the game kept fans on the edge of their seats, with both teams exchanging leads and showcasing their talent.
As the game entered its final stages, the intensity ramped up. The Warriors' coaching staff, led by Steve Kerr, utilized their challenges wisely, hoping to gain any potential advantage. The Timberwolves, under coach Chris Finch, were equally strategic, looking to exploit the Warriors' weaknesses.
The matchup between these two teams has been highly anticipated, and both squads have shown flashes of brilliance. The Timberwolves, after a rocky start in Game 1, rebounded strongly in Game 2, proving they can compete at the highest level. Meanwhile, the Warriors, despite their struggles, have the experience and talent needed to turn the tide in their favor.
With the series tied and the stakes higher than ever, Game 3 promises to be a thrilling encounter. Fans can expect to see strategic adjustments from both teams as they vie for supremacy in the series. As the Timberwolves look to build on their momentum, the Warriors are determined to reclaim their home court advantage.
As the clock ticks down, every possession counts, and both teams are aware that this game could very well define the series. Will the Warriors find a way to overcome the odds without Curry, or will the Timberwolves continue their strong playoff run? Only time will tell as the drama unfolds in San Francisco.
For those looking to catch the action, the game will be broadcast on ABC, and streaming options are available through various platforms, including FuboTV. Fans should prepare for an exciting evening of basketball as two of the league's top teams battle it out for a crucial playoff victory.
