ORLANDO, Fla. — In a dazzling display of basketball prowess, Stephen Curry spearheaded a Golden State Warriors victory over the Orlando Magic, scoring a season-high 56 points. Curry’s remarkable performance included 12 3-pointers and he single-handedly outscored Orlando during the third quarter, propelling the Warriors to a 121-115 triumph on Thursday night.
Curry’s shooting was exceptional as he went 12 for 19 from beyond the arc, marking his 26th career NBA game with at least 10 3-pointers. Overall, Curry finished 16 of 25 from the field and was flawless from the free-throw line, sinking all 12 attempts. The victory marked the Warriors’ fifth consecutive win.
In response, Paolo Banchero contributed 41 points for the Magic, with Franz Wagner adding 27 points to Orlando’s effort.
During a commanding third quarter, Curry scored 22 points to help Golden State transform a 14-point deficit into a five-point lead, outpacing Orlando, which managed only 21 points in that period.
Off the Golden State bench, Quinten Post delivered a notable performance with 18 points and five rebounds, contributing 10 consecutive points for the Warriors in the second quarter. Draymond Green also played a pivotal role with 12 points and 10 rebounds.
With Curry resting, Golden State’s defense shined by keeping the Magic scoreless for over three minutes into the fourth quarter, which widened the gap from a five-point lead to 12.
An Analysis:
Warriors: This victory was Golden State’s seventh win in their last eight games following a significant trade for Jimmy Butler on February 6. Butler recorded five points, seven assists, and played for 32 minutes, albeit on a challenging shooting night.
Magic: Orlando’s defeat was marred by 18 turnovers, several of which were unforced errors, allowing the Warriors to stay competitive in the first half despite the Magic’s impressive 64% shooting accuracy. This game marked Orlando’s 14th loss in their last 20 matches.
Crucial Moment:
Curry electrified the crowd by ending the first half with a magnificent shot from beyond half-court, cutting the Warriors’ deficit to 14 at the break. He followed it up by starting the second half with another successful 3-pointer.
Key Statistic:
Curry’s career-high scoring output stands at 62 points, a benchmark he set on January 3, 2021, against the Portland Trail Blazers. His record for 3-pointers in a single game remains at 13.
Upcoming Games:
The Warriors are set to face Philadelphia this Saturday, while Orlando will host the Toronto Raptors on Sunday.
