Jimmy Butler led the Golden State Warriors to victory against the Milwaukee Bucks on Tuesday night, March 18, 2025, despite the absence of star guard Stephen Curry. Butler recorded an impressive 24 points, eight rebounds, and 10 assists, showcasing his all-around talent in a game where the Warriors won 104-93 at home in San Francisco.
Curry, who had recently made history as the first player in NBA history to sink 4,000 three-pointers, was given the night off by head coach Steve Kerr for a much-needed mental and emotional break. This strategic decision allowed other players to step up, and in Curry’s absence, Brandin Podziemski delivered a notable performance, starting in place of the superstar and finishing with 17 points and seven rebounds.
Podziemski’s return to the court was eagerly anticipated following a period of recovery from a bilateral low back strain that had sidelined him. As he worked to regain full fitness, recent practices played a crucial role, providing him with necessary running and shooting sessions. Coach Kerr had been cautious with Podziemski’s reintroduction, targeting the game against the Bucks as a potential comeback due to his previous success, which included earning an All-Rookie First Team nod last season.
Buddy Hield also contributed significantly off the bench, scoring 15 points and grabbing six rebounds, as the Warriors improved their overall record to 40-39, moving them to the sixth position in the competitive Western Conference. The victory marks an impressive 5-1 record during the Warriors' current seven-game homestand, reflecting their resilience amidst a season filled with challenges.
The Bucks, despite their star performances from players like Kyle Kuzma, who made five three-pointers and finished with 22 points, struggled to keep up with the Warriors. Giannis Antetokounmpo managed to add 20 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists, but the team couldn’t recover from a sluggish start and played from behind for much of the game. Milwaukee now faces tough matchups against strong opponents in the Western Conference, including the Lakers, Kings, Suns, and Nuggets.
A pivotal moment in the game came late in the fourth quarter when Podziemski made his third three-pointer, solidifying the Warriors' lead after the Bucks had a chance to tie the game with a 3-point attempt from Gary Trent Jr., which missed.
Looking ahead, the Warriors are set to complete their season-high homestand with a matchup against the Toronto Raptors on Thursday night, March 20, 2025, while the Bucks will head to Los Angeles to take on the Lakers on the same day. As teams continue their push for the playoffs, the stakes only heighten, and every game will be critical.
This game not only demonstrated the depth of the Warriors' roster but also highlighted their adaptability in the face of adversity, particularly with Curry's absence. As they navigate the remainder of the regular season, maintaining this momentum will be crucial for Golden State's playoff aspirations.
