In a thrilling, high-stakes matchup that lived up to its billing, the Golden State Warriors defeated the Memphis Grizzlies, 121-116, to secure the seventh seed in the Western Conference. This victory not only earned them a spot in the 2025 NBA Playoffs but also set the stage for a highly anticipated matchup against the second-seeded Houston Rockets. The victory over Memphis was one for the ages, marked by clutch performances, outstanding teamwork, and a strong display of resilience from the Warriors, who overcame a late-game push from the Grizzlies to seal the win.
With the playoffs just around the corner, this game was more than just a battle for positioning—it was a statement game for Golden State. After a rollercoaster season, full of injuries and adjustments, securing a playoff spot was a massive achievement for the Warriors. Now, with their eyes set on Houston, Golden State has the opportunity to prove they still have what it takes to compete at the highest level.
A Game That Had It All: Fast Pace and High Intensity
From the opening tip, it was clear that this game would be a battle. The Warriors, led by the dynamic backcourt duo of Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson, came out firing on all cylinders, pushing the tempo and showcasing their signature three-point shooting. Memphis, on the other hand, leaned heavily on their physicality and defense, spearheaded by the relentless Ja Morant and the presence of Jaren Jackson Jr. in the paint.
Golden State took an early lead, with Curry and Thompson hitting timely threes and Draymond Green facilitating the offense with his playmaking. However, the Grizzlies were not going to back down. Morant, who had been playing at an MVP level for much of the season, was everywhere on the court. Whether it was slicing through the defense, hitting tough mid-range shots, or finding teammates for open looks, he kept the Grizzlies in striking distance.
Memphis’s defense was a story of its own. They aggressively switched on screens, made life difficult for Golden State’s shooters, and consistently crashed the boards to limit second-chance opportunities. Jackson’s shot-blocking ability was particularly impactful, as he swatted several attempts from Warriors players in the paint, causing Golden State to adjust their approach.
As the first half progressed, both teams exchanged runs, with Golden State pulling away to a double-digit lead before Memphis stormed back, led by Morant’s dazzling ball handling and scoring. By the time the first half ended, the Warriors had a slim 63-58 lead, but it was clear that this was going to be a close contest that could go down to the wire.
The Second Half: Golden State’s Resilience and Clutch Play
The second half of the game was a showcase of grit, with both teams fighting tooth and nail for every point. The Warriors, having struggled with consistency throughout the season, knew that this was a game they couldn’t afford to lose. With Curry and Thompson leading the charge, Golden State maintained a slim lead through the third quarter. Curry was the focal point of the offense, scoring efficiently both off the dribble and on catch-and-shoot opportunities. His ability to stretch the defense created open lanes for his teammates, and he made several key passes to Green, Andrew Wiggins, and Kevon Looney, who contributed offensively in crucial moments.
However, Memphis wasn’t about to give up. With the game still tight, the Grizzlies made a strong push early in the fourth quarter. Morant continued to shine, attacking the basket relentlessly and drawing fouls, while Desmond Bane provided a much-needed scoring punch from beyond the arc. Jackson, whose defensive presence had been critical all game, also started to find his rhythm offensively, hitting mid-range jumpers and putting pressure on the Warriors’ defense.
With just over four minutes remaining in the game, Memphis took a brief 108-106 lead, sending the home crowd into a frenzy. The Warriors, however, remained composed. Curry, with ice in his veins, hit a crucial three-pointer to put Golden State back ahead. Thompson, who had been quiet for much of the game, also found his rhythm in the final moments, nailing a key jumper to extend the Warriors’ lead.
But the Grizzlies weren’t done. A driving layup by Morant and a pair of free throws by Jackson tied the game at 114-114 with just under two minutes to go. In those final moments, it was the Warriors’ experience and ability to execute in the clutch that made all the difference.
Curry, who finished the game with 36 points and 8 assists, continued to show why he is considered one of the best closers in the league. With just under a minute left, he hit another three-pointer to give Golden State a 117-114 lead, a shot that would prove to be the game-winner. Memphis had one last chance to tie the game, but a missed three-pointer by Bane sealed the victory for the Warriors.
Green, who was everywhere on defense and also chipped in with 10 points and 9 rebounds, played a pivotal role in the closing minutes, providing the leadership and defensive stability needed to hold off Memphis’s late surge. Wiggins also contributed with timely baskets, finishing the game with 15 points and 6 rebounds.
In the end, Golden State’s ability to execute in crunch time, combined with their offensive firepower and defensive grit, was the difference in a hard-fought 121-116 win.
What This Victory Means for Golden State
This victory was a massive step for the Golden State Warriors. Despite a season filled with uncertainty and injuries, they had secured a return to the playoffs, a significant achievement for a team that had once been dominant in the NBA. For head coach Steve Kerr, the win was a testament to the resilience and mental toughness of his team. “We’ve had our ups and downs this season,” Kerr said after the game. “But when it matters most, we have a group of guys who know how to compete. Tonight was a perfect example of that.”
The win also sets up a thrilling first-round playoff series against the second-seeded Houston Rockets, who finished the regular season with a 55-27 record. Houston, led by MVP candidate Jalen Green and a dynamic supporting cast including Alperen Sengun and Jabari Smith Jr., is one of the most dangerous teams in the NBA this season. Golden State will undoubtedly face a tough challenge, but they are battle-tested and know what it takes to compete at the highest level.
For Curry, this victory is just another chapter in his illustrious career. He has already won multiple MVP awards and three NBA championships with the Warriors, but the drive for more remains. With the playoffs now within reach, Curry’s leadership will be crucial in guiding Golden State through a difficult playoff run. Thompson, who has returned to his elite shooting form after a series of injuries, will also be a key piece in Golden State’s playoff run.
Additionally, Draymond Green’s defense and ability to facilitate on offense will play an important role in limiting the Rockets’ scoring and generating easy looks for his teammates. The return of key contributors such as Kevon Looney and Andrew Wiggins gives the Warriors depth and the ability to adapt to various matchups.
This playoff appearance also provides a major opportunity for the younger players on the roster. Players like Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody, and James Wiseman will be looking to prove themselves on the big stage, and their development will be essential if the Warriors are to make a deep run into the postseason.
The Road Ahead: Golden State vs. Houston Rockets
Now that Golden State has secured their playoff berth, all eyes turn to their matchup with the Houston Rockets. The Rockets are one of the most exciting and up-and-coming teams in the NBA, and their young core, led by Green and Sengun, poses a unique challenge for the Warriors.
Houston’s offense, which is built around the dynamic scoring abilities of Green, has been one of the most potent in the league. Green, who is averaging 27.6 points per game this season, has the ability to take over games and create opportunities for his teammates. The Warriors will need to rely on their defense, especially with Green tasked with slowing down Green. Draymond Green, who has made a name for himself as one of the NBA’s top defenders, will play a key role in this matchup. His ability to guard multiple positions and be a disruptive force in the paint will be critical in slowing down Houston’s high-powered offense.
The Warriors’ perimeter defense will also be tested by Houston’s three-point shooting. The Rockets have several shooters capable of stretching the floor, and Golden State will need to be disciplined in closing out on shooters and defending the three-point line.
On the offensive side, the Warriors’ shooting prowess will be a major factor. With Curry, Thompson, and Wiggins, Golden State has three players capable of lighting up the scoreboard on any given night. The key will be finding ways to generate open shots and get easy looks for their shooters. The Warriors will also need to find a way to exploit Houston’s defense and create mismatches, especially in pick-and-roll situations with Draymond Green.
This series promises to be a thrilling back-and-forth, with both teams capable of taking over games. Golden State’s experience and championship pedigree give them an edge, but the Rockets’ youthful energy and talent make them a formidable opponent. Regardless of the outcome, this will be a series to remember, and the Warriors are poised to make a deep run as they continue their quest for another championship.
Golden State’s hard-fought victory over the Memphis Grizzlies secured their spot in the 2025 NBA Playoffs, setting the stage for a highly anticipated first-round matchup with the second-seeded Houston Rockets. The Warriors, led by the dynamic duo of Curry and Thompson, showed why they are one of the most dangerous teams in the league, overcoming adversity and executing in clutch moments to secure the win. With a tough road ahead, including a matchup with a young and talented Houston team, the Warriors will need to bring their A-game to continue their playoff push. However, with their experience, leadership, and firepower, Golden State is more than capable of making another deep playoff run and contending for an NBA championship.
