On April 23, 2015, Stephen Curry delivered one of the most iconic moments of his illustrious playoff career. In Game 3 of the Western Conference First Round against the New Orleans Pelicans, Curry hit a game-tying three-pointer with 0.7 seconds left in regulation, forcing overtime and eventually leading the Golden State Warriors to a 123–119 victory. This clutch performance not only showcased Curry’s exceptional shooting ability but also highlighted his poise under pressure and his capacity to elevate his game in critical moments.
The Build-Up to the Moment
The Warriors entered the 2015 playoffs with high expectations, having finished the regular season with a league-best 67–15 record. Curry, the reigning MVP, was at the peak of his powers, leading a team that had revolutionized the game with its emphasis on three-point shooting and pace. The Pelicans, led by young star Anthony Davis, were making their first playoff appearance since relocating to New Orleans. Despite their inexperience, the Pelicans were a formidable opponent, and the series was expected to be a challenging test for the Warriors.
In the first two games of the series, the Warriors had secured victories, but both games were closely contested. Game 3 was set to be a pivotal matchup, and the atmosphere in New Orleans was electric, with the home crowd eager to see their team make a statement.
The Clutch Shot
With the game tied at 116 and the clock winding down in regulation, the Warriors had possession of the ball. Curry, known for his ability to create his own shot from virtually anywhere on the court, received an inbounds pass from Draymond Green. As the defense closed in, Curry dribbled to his right, creating just enough space to launch a contested three-pointer over the outstretched arms of Pelicans defenders. The ball sailed through the air and swished through the net as time expired, sending the game into overtime and the Warriors’ bench into a frenzy.
The shot was a testament to Curry’s confidence and skill. Despite the intense pressure and the defense bearing down on him, he remained composed and delivered a perfect shot. His ability to make such a difficult shot in such a critical moment underscored why he was considered the best shooter in the league.
Impact on the Game and Series
In overtime, the Warriors outscored the Pelicans 7–3, securing the victory and taking a commanding 3–0 lead in the series. Curry finished the game with 40 points, including 7 three-pointers, and added 9 assists and 2 steals. His performance was a microcosm of his entire season—efficient, explosive, and decisive. The Warriors would go on to win the series in four games, with Curry continuing to lead his team with exceptional performances.
The significance of this moment extended beyond just the game. It symbolized the Warriors’ emergence as a dominant force in the NBA and marked the beginning of a playoff run that would culminate in their first NBA Championship in 40 years. Curry’s clutch shot against the Pelicans became one of the defining highlights of the 2015 postseason and solidified his reputation as a player who could deliver in the most critical moments.
Legacy of the Moment
Looking back, Curry’s game-tying three-pointer against the Pelicans stands as a defining moment in his career. It encapsulated his journey from a talented but undersized guard to a two-time MVP and NBA Champion. The shot became emblematic of the Warriors’ rise to prominence and the evolution of the NBA into a league that increasingly valued perimeter shooting and spacing.
For fans and analysts alike, the moment is a reminder of Curry’s unique ability to perform under pressure and his transformative impact on the game of basketball. It serves as a benchmark for clutch performances and continues to be replayed in highlight reels, celebrated as one of the most iconic shots in NBA playoff history.
As we reflect on this moment ten years later, it remains a testament to Stephen Curry’s greatness and his enduring legacy in the NBA.
