UPDATE: In a thrilling showdown at Chase Center on October 26, 2023, the Golden State Warriors defeated the Denver Nuggets 137-131 in overtime, highlighted by Stephen Curry’s clutch shooting and Aaron Gordon’s remarkable performance.
Aaron Gordon delivered a jaw-dropping performance, scoring 50 points on 17-of-21 shooting and hitting 10-of-11 from three. His final 3-pointer with just 26 seconds left in regulation seemed to seal the game for the Nuggets, giving them a three-point lead. However, Curry responded in spectacular fashion, sinking a game-tying 34-footer just five seconds later.
The Warriors then took control in overtime, with Curry scoring the first three points and sealing the game with two free throws. This victory pushes the Warriors to a record of 2-0 early in the season, signaling their intent to be serious contenders in the Western Conference.
“The bigger the moment, the more he rises,” said Draymond Green about Curry. “He loves the show. Anytime there’s a show to be put on, he’s going to do it.”
Curry’s final tally was impressive, with 42 points on 14-of-25 shooting, including six three-pointers. This marks one of his highest scoring games in a home opener throughout his illustrious career. Despite Gordon’s historic night, which included making eight consecutive threes—just one shy of an NBA record—the Warriors managed to overshadow his performance.
Denver’s Coach David Adelman acknowledged Curry’s impact, stating, “The shot he made to tie it toward the end [of regulation], it’s a shot that only he can make.” This game was a perfect illustration of how quickly momentum can shift in the NBA.
In a surprising strategic move, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr deployed a larger lineup late in the game, featuring Curry, Jimmy Butler, Jonathan Kuminga, Draymond Green, and newly acquired Al Horford. This lineup, which had never played together before, was instrumental in erasing a seven-point deficit in the final minutes of regulation.
“It was really fun to watch a group that’s never played together close a game against one of the best teams in the league,” Kerr remarked after the game.
The Nuggets, now 0-1, will return home to face the Phoenix Suns on Saturday night. As for the Warriors, this victory sets the tone for what promises to be an exciting season filled with high-stakes matchups.
NEXT: Fans will eagerly await how both teams adjust as the season progresses, with the Warriors aiming to maintain their momentum and the Nuggets looking to bounce back from this tough loss.
