- Golden State edged Memphis 121:116 in a chaotic play-in clash after blowing a 20-point lead
- The final two quarters featured controversial calls, injuries to Ja Morant and Steph Curry, and high drama
- Warriors clinched the 7th seed and will face the Houston Rockets in the first round of the NBA Playoffs
Key Takeaways:
Golden State Warriors entered the NBA Playoffs as expected—but not before surviving a nightmare and dramatic game in the play-in tournament. One of the most experienced squads in the league barely got past Memphis at home with a 121:116 win, after squandering a 20-point lead and even having to play catch-up late in the game.
Curry once again came up CLUTCH. pic.twitter.com/InQoqm54Hq
— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) April 16, 2025
The wild final two quarters featured just about everything—refereeing mistakes and bizarre calls in both directions, injuries to visiting star Ja Morant, who could barely walk at the end, and to Stephen Curry, who’s been dealing with a toe issue for several weeks.
The game also delivered the basketball fan’s ultimate treat—nail-biting final seconds with a one-possession difference and high emotions. The only thing missing was a buzzer-beater to force overtime. Memphis missed their final chance in strange fashion, failing to get the ball in play and committing a five-second violation that ended their hopes of a last shot. A crazy end to a crazy game.
With the win, the Warriors secured the 7th spot in the Western Conference and will face the Houston Rockets in the first round of the playoffs. Steve Kerr’s team hit 28 out of 34 free throws and recorded 29 assists. Leading the way for the home side was Jimmy Butler with 38 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists, while Stephen Curry added 37 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists. For the Grizzlies, Desmond Bane led the scoring with 30 points.