INGLEWOOD, Calif. — In a thrilling matchup, Norman Powell shone with 23 points as the Los Angeles Clippers narrowly defeated the Golden State Warriors 102-99 on Monday evening, marking the team’s fifth straight victory at home.

James Harden contributed significantly, adding 12 points along with a remarkable 16 assists, while Ivica Zubac dominated the boards with 17 rebounds. This win was particularly notable for the Clippers, who had previously struggled, suffering losses in their first four games at their new venue.

Stephen Curry emerged as the standout for the Warriors, scoring 26 points, closely followed by Andrew Wiggins, who netted 22 points. The Warriors only led briefly after a 3-pointer from Lindy Waters III at the start of the game. Despite closing the gap to within three points as the final minutes approached, the Warriors were unable to secure the win, marking the end of their three-game winning streak.

In the dying moments of the game, Golden State had a chance to tie or win, but Curry’s attempt at a 3-pointer to even the score was unsuccessful, as was Gary Payton II’s subsequent shot.

In pre-game remarks, Warriors coach Steve Kerr revealed he was unaware that Curry had been placed on the injury list, attributing it to “protocol.” Curry, who had been dealing with left knee bursitis, struggled in the first half, scoring just eight points and shooting 2 of 7 from beyond the arc. However, he rallied in the third quarter, making three of the team’s six 3-pointers and reducing the deficit to 75-72 as they entered the final quarter.

The Clippers demonstrated resilience, receiving substantial support from their bench on a night where three starters finished with single-digit points. Their reserves outscored those of the Warriors by a significant margin, 45 to 28.

A critical moment in the game occurred when Powell briefly exited due to left hamstring discomfort but returned to contribute immensely, hitting three crucial 3-pointers in the fourth quarter to help secure the victory.

The Warriors struggled with their long-range shooting, managing only 36% from 3-point territory, with Curry’s shooting reflecting this as he finished the game shooting 6 of 15.

Looking ahead, the Warriors are set to host the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday, while the Clippers will welcome the Orlando Magic to their arena.