The Milestone Night: Steph Curry’s 700th 20-Point Game
SACRAMENTO – Another night in the record books for Steph Curry. The Warriors’ superstar finished with 20 points on Friday night, marking the 700th time in his career he has reached that number, becoming the first to achieve the milestone in franchise history. Only 21 players in NBA history have accomplished this, and among the current active players, only Curry, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and James Harden share this distinction. However, it was not just Curry’s individual achievement that paved the way for the Warriors’ dominant 132-106 win against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center. Head coach Steve Kerr noted, “I thought Steph was brilliant in the first half. He was 2 for 3, and you don’t see that very often where he only gets three shots in a half, but he had six assists and no turnovers and controlled the game.” The Kings’ interim coach, Doug Christie, had a clear game plan from the opening tip: focus on stopping Curry. They picked him up full court and forced the ball out of his hands, but Curry didn’t force the issue; instead, he played in the flow of the game, making smart decisions and setting up his teammates.
The Bench Warmer’s Impact: Quinten Post’s Stellar Performance
When Curry went to the bench near the end of the first quarter, the Warriors were leading by three points, 26-23. However, they missed their next five shot attempts, and the Kings tied the game with a three-pointer by Zach LaVine and then took a two-point lead with free throws by Jonas Valanciunas. Just when it seemed the momentum was shifting, Buddy Hield and Brandin Podziemski stepped up, giving the Warriors a three-point lead again going into the second quarter. But the game truly turned in the early minutes of the second quarter, when the non-Steph minutes became even more crucial. Warriors rookie center Quinten Post, who didn’t see the floor in the first quarter, made an immediate impact. The 7-footer hit back-to-back 3-pointers within the first two minutes, pushing the Warriors’ lead to nine points with his first and to 10 with his second. Within the first five minutes, Post scored nine points on a perfect 3 of 3 from deep. This performance was particularly special for Post, as his father, Arjen, traveled from the Netherlands to watch his son play in the NBA for the first time. Post’s reaction was clear and heartfelt. “Everything, man,” he said. “Ever since I got drafted, he hasn’t been able to come over. … It means a lot. He played himself, he’s the reason why I started playing.”
The Emotional Journey: Post’s Father’s First NBA Game
Friday night marked Post’s 18th game in the NBA, but it was a momentous first for him. His father’s presence added an emotional layer to his performance. Post tried to stay focused on the game, but the significance of the moment was inescapable. Just 15 seconds after Post made his third 3-pointer, the Kings called a timeout. That’s when the memories flooded back. The countless practices, the sacrifices, the unwavering dedication, and the long-held dream of playing in the NBA. “You’re just like, ‘Oh, this is awesome that he’s here seeing this little spurt,’ ” Post shared. The combination of Podziemski, Post, Moses Moody, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green played the first five minutes and eight seconds of the second quarter, outscoring the Kings 22-8. This stellar play helped the Warriors build a significant 53-36 lead, and Curry, watching from the bench, was able to rest and recharge.
Strategic Decisions: Kerr’s Tactical Moves
The deciding factor in many of the Warriors’ games has been how effectively the team can play when Curry is on the bench. Typically, staying afloat during these minutes is a win, but being a plus-14 in a seven-minute stretch is a game-changer. Kerr’s decision to ride the hot hand of Post and his teammates was pivotal. “That group was on a run,” Kerr explained. “We sent Steph back and waited until after the timeout to bring him back in, bought him an extra minute and let that group go.” The coach’s tactical move not only allowed Curry to rest but also ensured that the momentum the bench players had built was not squandered. This strategic depth and the ability of the team to perform without their star player is a testament to the Warriors’ overall strength and depth.
Team Effort: Beyond the Individuals
While Post’s performance was a highlight, the overall effort from the bench players was remarkable. Podziemski added seven points, Moody contributed five, Butler put in three, and Hield also chipped in with three. The Warriors were an even zero in the 31 minutes Curry played, but they were a plus-26 in the 17 minutes he watched from the bench. This balance in scoring and the ability to maintain and even extend their lead without Curry on the court is a critical factor as the Warriors look to solidify their position and prepare for the playoffs. The team’s chemistry and the confidence in their bench players were on full display, showcasing a well-rounded roster that can adapt and thrive under different circumstances.
Looking Forward: A Dangerous Team on the Rise
As the Warriors enter the final seven weeks of the regular season, their ability to play effectively when Curry is on the bench will be crucial. Curry is undoubtedly the head of the snake, and if the rest of the team can form fangs around him and continue to produce such significant runs, the Warriors will be a dangerous force. Friday night’s game against the Kings served as a reminder that while Curry’s individual brilliance is a cornerstone, the Warriors’ success is a team effort. The bench players’ contributions not only secured the win but also bolstered the team’s confidence and resilience. With this kind of depth and cohesion, the Warriors are well-prepared to rattle the basketball world in the coming weeks and potentially deep into the playoffs.
