The NBA play-in tournament is heating up, and on April 15, 2025, fans gathered at the Chase Center in San Francisco, California, for a thrilling showdown between the Golden State Warriors and the Memphis Grizzlies. This high-stakes game not only determines the seventh seed in the Western Conference but also a chance to face the Houston Rockets in the playoffs.
Both teams entered this pivotal matchup with identical 48-34 records, making it a true toss-up. The Warriors, boasting a favorable 10-5 record against the Grizzlies in their last 15 encounters, had the home-court advantage and the momentum from a strong finish to the regular season. Meanwhile, the Grizzlies, with their youthful energy and tenacious defense, were eager to prove their mettle against a seasoned Warriors squad.
As the game kicked off at 10 p.m. ET (11 p.m. Brasília time), the atmosphere was electric, with fans buzzing in anticipation of watching superstars Stephen Curry and Ja Morant go head-to-head. Curry, known for his sharpshooting prowess, averaged 26 points, 6 assists, and a 39% success rate from three-point range during the season. On the other side, Morant, a dynamic playmaker, boasted averages of 25 points and 7 assists per game, showcasing his explosive style of play.
Both players had similar scoring averages, with Curry at 24.5 points and Morant at 23.2 points per game during the regular season. However, Morant had the edge in assists, averaging 7.3 compared to Curry's 6. This matchup was not just about individual talent; it was a clash of contrasting playing styles. Morant's aggressive drives to the basket were countered by Curry's preference for perimeter shooting.
In terms of team dynamics, the Warriors were expected to field a lineup featuring Curry, Moses Moody, Brandin Podziemski, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green. Coach Steve Kerr had adjusted the rotation due to injuries, with Gary Payton II sidelined and Jonathan Kuminga questionable. The Warriors aimed to exploit their fast-paced movement and three-point shooting capabilities.
Meanwhile, the Grizzlies, led by interim coach Tuomas Iisalo, anticipated starting Morant, Desmond Bane, Jaylen Wells, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Zach Edey. Despite injury setbacks affecting Marcus Smart and Vince Williams Jr., Memphis was determined to utilize its defensive strength, allowing under 110 points per game.
The stakes were high, as the winner of this play-in game would secure a direct ticket to the playoffs, while the loser would need to fight for survival in a subsequent matchup against the winner of the 9th vs. 10th seed game.
As the first quarter unfolded, both teams exchanged baskets, with the crowd erupting for every highlight play. Curry quickly found his rhythm, sinking three-pointers that sent waves of excitement through the arena. Morant responded with his signature agility, driving through the Warriors' defense and finishing at the rim.
With the game tied at the midway point of the second quarter, the tension in the Chase Center was palpable. Fans were on the edge of their seats as both teams battled for every possession. The Warriors' experience showed as they managed to pull ahead, but the Grizzlies weren't backing down, showcasing their resilience and grit.
As the game progressed, the narrative of the match shifted. The Warriors, despite their strong home record of 25 wins in 41 games this season, faced a formidable challenge from Memphis, whose offense averaged an impressive 122.1 points on the road.
The halftime score reflected the intensity of the match, with the Warriors holding a slim lead. Fans were treated to a thrilling showdown, with both teams showcasing their skills and determination. Analysts had predicted a close game, and it was living up to the hype.
In the second half, the Grizzlies made adjustments, focusing on shutting down Curry's perimeter shooting while utilizing Morant's speed to create scoring opportunities. The Warriors, on the other hand, relied on their defensive anchors, Green and Butler, to stifle Memphis' offensive flow.
As the clock wound down, the tension mounted with every possession. Both teams exchanged leads, and the atmosphere in the arena reached a fever pitch. Fans were treated to a showcase of elite basketball, with each player leaving everything on the court.
With just minutes remaining, the game was still up for grabs. Curry, known for his clutch performances, took control, hitting crucial shots that kept the Warriors in the lead. Morant, undeterred, continued to drive hard to the basket, drawing fouls and converting critical free throws.
The final moments of the game were a rollercoaster of emotions, with fans erupting in cheers and gasps as the teams battled for every point. The stakes were clear: the winner would advance to the playoffs, while the loser faced elimination.
As the final buzzer approached, the outcome remained uncertain, but one thing was clear: this game would be remembered as another chapter in the storied rivalry between the Warriors and Grizzlies.
For fans unable to attend, the game was broadcast live on Prime Video and NBA League Pass, ensuring that basketball enthusiasts around the world could witness the drama unfold. The combination of thrilling gameplay, star power, and playoff implications made this play-in game a must-watch event.
As the dust settled, both teams would reflect on their performances, knowing that they had given their all in pursuit of playoff glory. Whether it was Curry's sharpshooting or Morant's electrifying plays, the night belonged to the players, and the fans were left buzzing with excitement for what lay ahead in the NBA playoffs.
