The Golden State Warriors and Memphis Grizzlies faced off in the first play-in game of the NBA Western Conference on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at the Chase Center in San Francisco. Both teams entered the matchup with identical regular-season records of 48 wins and 34 losses, but the Warriors held the home-court advantage due to tiebreakers. This game was crucial, as the winner would secure a spot in the playoffs, while the loser would have to fight for survival in a subsequent game.
The stakes were high for both franchises. The Warriors, who have been a dominant force in the NBA over the past decade, were looking to shake off a troubling trend—they had never won a play-in game. Despite their home advantage, they knew they needed to overcome this history to continue their playoff journey. The team was led by star guard Stephen Curry, who averaged 24.5 points and 6.0 assists per game during the regular season. Curry's performance would be pivotal in determining the outcome of the game.
On the other side, the Grizzlies, featuring the explosive Ja Morant, were equally motivated. Morant had a strong season, posting averages of 23.2 points and 7.3 assists, and he was prepared to lead his team in this crucial matchup. Having faced the Warriors four times during the regular season, the Grizzlies managed to secure one win, a significant 144-93 blowout on December 19, 2024, showcasing their potential to dominate when they find their rhythm.
In their previous encounters this season, the Warriors had the upper hand, winning three out of four games. Their most recent matchup took place on April 1, 2025, where Golden State emerged victorious with a score of 134-125, thanks in large part to Curry's stunning 52-point performance. This history added an extra layer of intrigue to the play-in game, as both teams were eager to prove themselves.
As the game approached, anticipation built among fans and analysts alike. The Warriors were expected to leverage their experience and home-court advantage, while the Grizzlies aimed to capitalize on their youthful energy and resilience. The matchup was set to be broadcast live via Prime Video and NBA League Pass, allowing fans across the nation to tune in and witness the action.
With the game scheduled for 23h (Brasília time), the atmosphere at the Chase Center was electric. The Warriors' fans, known for their passionate support, filled the arena, hoping to see their team break the play-in curse. Meanwhile, Grizzlies fans were equally hopeful, ready to cheer their team to victory.
In the context of the NBA, the play-in tournament format allows teams finishing in the 7th and 8th positions of each conference a chance to compete for playoff spots. The winner of the Warriors-Grizzlies matchup would secure the 7th seed in the Western Conference playoffs, facing off against the Houston Rockets, who finished the regular season as the second seed. The loser, however, would not be eliminated just yet; they would get another shot at playoff contention by facing the winner of the game between the 9th and 10th placed teams, which featured the Sacramento Kings and Dallas Mavericks.
As the clock counted down to tip-off, both teams were aware of the significance of this game. The Warriors, with their championship pedigree, were determined to assert their dominance, while the Grizzlies were eager to prove that they could compete at the highest level. The tension was palpable, and everyone in attendance knew they were witnessing a pivotal moment in the NBA season.
Ultimately, the outcome of the game would not only affect the immediate playoff picture but also set the tone for the future of both franchises. The Warriors were looking to reclaim their status among the elite, while the Grizzlies aimed to establish themselves as a formidable contender in the Western Conference.
As the matchup unfolded, fans were treated to a thrilling display of basketball. Both teams exchanged leads, with Curry showcasing his sharpshooting ability and Morant countering with his explosive drives to the basket. The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, with each possession carrying the weight of the season.
As the final minutes approached, the intensity ramped up. Each team fought hard, knowing that the stakes could not be higher. The Warriors needed to overcome their play-in history, while the Grizzlies sought to capitalize on their opportunity to make a statement in the playoffs.
With the game still in progress, the excitement was palpable. Fans held their breath as the clock ticked down, and both teams pushed themselves to the limit. The outcome remained uncertain, but one thing was clear: this was a game that would be remembered in both franchises' histories, regardless of the final score.
In summary, the Warriors and Grizzlies faced off in a crucial play-in game that would determine their playoff fates. With a rich history of competition and a playoff berth on the line, both teams brought their A-game to the Chase Center. As the final buzzer approached, fans eagerly awaited the conclusion of this thrilling matchup, hoping to witness a defining moment in their team's journey.
