MINNEAPOLIS -- Stephen Curry scored 11 straight points in the fourth quarter and 31 for the night as the Golden State Warriors overcame the Minnesota Timberwolves with a 113-103 victory on Saturday night. The Warriors showcased resilience and skill, bouncing back from their previous game, where they suffered a significant loss to the Memphis Grizzlies.
This latest match took place at the iconic Target Center, where Trayce Jackson-Davis contributed with 15 points and nine rebounds and Brandin Podziemski added 12 points and 10 assists. Meanwhile, Anthony Edwards and Donte DiVincenzo led the Timberwolves, each scoring 19 points, highlighting the competitive spirit of the game.
Initially, the game looked promising for the Warriors, who built up a substantial lead of 21 points during the first half. The Timberwolves, who struggled early on, managed to regain some ground with notable performances, particularly exploding for 38 points during the third quarter. Rudy Gobert scored 18 points and secured 12 rebounds, showcasing his usual strength on the boards.
Key moments defined the game, especially when Curry ignited his scoring spree, hitting three 3-pointers and two free throws within just 90 seconds to help the Warriors pull away. After leading 96-94 with just under four minutes to go, Curry's clutch shooting proved pivotal. With the Warriors needing to solidify their advantage, he curled off a screen, caught a pass, and drilled another 3-pointer, extending the lead and dashing the Timberwolves' hopes for a comeback.
Despite their offensive struggles, the Timberwolves showed signs of resilience. After scoring only 37 points in the first half, they began to find their rhythm late, clawing back to take the lead briefly. Still, they faced challenges converting scoring opportunities consistently, especially when shooting percentages faltered early, finishing the night at 41.9% overall.
A unique aspect of this game was the interruption caused by issues with the net and rim at one end of the court, resulting in a 25-minute delay before the game began. While this incident was unexpected, it could not detract from the high energy and tension displayed throughout the match.
The coaching decisions didn’t go unnoticed either. Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch opted for Julius Randle over Naz Reid during the closing lineup, causing some discussions among the fans and analysts alike. Finch's comment, "I did, but I didn't," reflected his thought process indicating Reid's effectiveness but still favoring Randle as the game drew closer to its conclusion.
Postgame, the young Warriors guard Brandin Podziemski had to clarify remarks he made, saying, "I don't really think. I just play." His comments drew attention amid the game’s intensity, but upon reflection, he explained he simply focuses on making plays whenever possible, acknowledging Curry’s presence on the court.
The Warriors have shown how quickly fortunes can change, with head coach Steve Kerr emphasizing the need for young players to learn alongside Curry. They prepare to return home to face the Indiana Pacers, hoping to continue building on their positive momentum. On the flip side, the Timberwolves, having dropped back to just one game above .500, must regroup before their upcoming matchup against Atlanta. Both teams have plenty to work on, but the Warriors are certainly riding high on this victory as they look forward to the challenges ahead.
This thrilling matchup exemplified the ups and downs of NBA basketball, where every game reveals new lessons for each team involved. For fans, the anticipation of what’s next remains ripe, especially with both teams capable of impactful performances.
