NEW ORLEANS — In a thrilling matchup on Friday evening, Andrew Wiggins notched 30 points, leading the Golden State Warriors to a 112-108 win over the struggling New Orleans Pelicans. This victory secured the Warriors a spot in the NBA Cup knockout round.

Stephen Curry contributed 19 points to the Warriors’ effort, enhancing their record to 3-0 in Group C of the Western Conference. Buddy Hield played a crucial role, sealing the game with two free throws just 18.5 seconds before the final buzzer, helping to fend off a late challenge from New Orleans. This win ensures Golden State’s advancement, either as the group winner or a wild card.

Trey Murphy III was the standout performer for the Pelicans with 24 points, but his attempt at a game-winning three-pointer fell short with only five seconds left. The opportunity arose when Brandon Boston Jr. intercepted a Golden State inbound pass. Following Murphy’s missed shot, the Warriors’ Draymond Green was fouled grabbing the rebound and converted both free throws, sealing the game.

Jeremiah Robinson-Earl added 19 points, while Brandon Ingram chimed in with 18, and Boston contributed 16 for New Orleans. Despite the effort, the team slipped to 1-2 in group play, marking their 10th defeat in the last 11 contests. Jordan Hawkins made his return after a seven-game absence due to back issues, managing to tally six points.

The game showcased the depth and balance of the Warriors, with Green and Brandin Podziemski each chipping in 11 points. Meanwhile, the Pelicans were hindered by injuries, as rookie center Yves Missi was sidelined with a sore shoulder, leading to the team’s 12th different starting lineup of the season. The lineup featured Elfrid Payton, Daniel Theis, Javonte Green, Ingram, and Murphy.

A pivotal moment came when Wiggins executed a spin move for a 13-foot floater while being fouled by Robinson-Earl with just over five minutes remaining. He converted the following free throw, pushing the lead to 102-94, and the Pelicans could not recover, only managing to narrow the deficit to 110-108 in the final minutes.

A key statistic from the game showed Golden State dominating the boards, out-rebounding New Orleans 52-42.

Looking ahead, the Warriors are set to face the San Antonio Spurs on Saturday night, while the Pelicans will travel to Indiana on Monday.