Jimmy Butler and Stephen Curry delivered masterclass performances in a high-stakes playoff showdown to lead the Golden State Warriors to a thrilling 112-108 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies. The game was a back-and-forth battle, with both teams trading big shots, but the Warriors’ championship experience proved decisive in the closing minutes.
Key Performances
| Player | Points | Rebounds | Assists | Key Stat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stephen Curry | 32 | 5 | 7 | 5/11 from three-point range |
| Jimmy Butler | 28 | 7 | 6 | 12/14 from free throw line |
| Ja Morant | 26 | 4 | 9 | 3 clutch baskets in 4th quarter |
| Draymond Green | 9 | 11 | 8 | Lockdown defense in final minutes |
Butler, playing with his trademark intensity, attacked the rim relentlessly, drawing fouls and converting crucial free throws. Meanwhile, Curry’s deep-range shooting kept the Grizzlies’ defense scrambling, including a dagger three-pointer with just under two minutes left to extend Golden State’s lead.
Memphis, led by Ja Morant’s explosive drives and playmaking, refused to go away quietly. The Grizzlies erased a 12-point deficit in the third quarter, with Morant scoring 10 straight points at one stage. However, the Warriors’ veteran poise—spearheaded by Draymond Green’s defensive stops and timely playmaking—sealed the win.
What This Means for the Series
Warriors take 1-0 lead, but Memphis has shown they can hang with the champs.
Curry’s shooting vs. Morant’s explosiveness will be the defining matchup moving forward.
Bench contributions could decide Game 2—both teams need more from their second unit.
"Playoff basketball is about weathering runs and executing when it matters," said Warriors coach Steve Kerr. "We did that tonight, but we know Memphis is coming back even harder next game."
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The Grizzlies will look to even the series in Game 2, while Golden State aims to take a commanding lead before heading back to San Francisco. One thing is certain—this series is far from over.
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