The Golden State Warriors are officially playoff-bound after a heart-pounding 121–116 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA Play-In Tournament. It was a win that showcased both veteran leadership and clutch performance, as Golden State now advances to face the second-seeded Houston Rockets in the first round.
In one of the most electric games of the season, newly acquired star Jimmy Butler III stole the spotlight with a phenomenal 38-point performance, adding 7 rebounds and 6 assists to his stat line. Stephen Curry, though facing shooting struggles, still delivered 37 points and 8 rebounds, proving once again why he’s one of the league’s most dependable big-stage players.
The Warriors controlled the game early, building a 20-point lead. But the Grizzlies, powered by Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, and Jaren Jackson Jr., mounted a fierce comeback in the second half. The pressure hit a boiling point in the final minutes, but Memphis’ costly mistakes—including a crucial five-second violation—allowed Golden State to hang on.
The bench offered limited scoring support beyond Gary Payton II and Quinten Post, underlining a growing concern for head coach Steve Kerr: the need for depth as the Warriors navigate the postseason.
But the real story of this team’s resurgence has been Jimmy Butler. Since joining the roster mid-season, the Warriors have gone 23–8, and Butler’s impact has been both vocal and visible. His tenacity, defensive prowess, and playoff experience have breathed new life into a team that started the season looking unsure of its identity.
With momentum on their side and a superstar duo leading the charge, the Warriors are primed for a compelling postseason run. All eyes will be on the upcoming clash with the Rockets—an old rivalry renewed on the biggest stage.
Can the Warriors defy the odds and make a deep playoff push? If last night’s game is any indication, they’re just getting started.