The Golden State Warriors are officially playoff-bound after a thrilling 121–116 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies in the Western Conference Play-In Tournament. The win on April 15, 2025, propels the Warriors into the postseason as the No. 7 seed, setting up an electric first-round matchup with the Houston Rockets.
In a game brimming with intensity, star power, and playoff-like drama, Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler III were nothing short of spectacular. The two combined for a jaw-dropping 75 points, carrying the team when it mattered most.
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The Dynamic Duo Delivers
Curry showed exactly why he’s one of the league’s most feared postseason performers. The two-time MVP torched the Grizzlies with 37 points, including 6 three-pointers and a perfect 13-for-13 from the free-throw line. He hit clutch shot after clutch shot, often silencing a surging Memphis crowd with his signature deep-range bombs.
But it was Jimmy Butler III, the Warriors’ key mid-season acquisition, who stole the show. The gritty forward put up 38 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists, bulldozing his way into the paint and making high-pressure buckets look easy. His energy on both ends was contagious and ignited the team during key stretches.
“We just wanted it more,” Butler said postgame. “This team is built for moments like this.”
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Grizzlies Fight Back
Despite being down by 19 at the half, the Grizzlies clawed their way back into contention in the third and fourth quarters. Led by Desmond Bane’s 30 points and Ja Morant’s 22 (while battling an ankle injury), Memphis refused to go quietly.
The game’s climax came with under a minute left, when the Grizzlies were down by three and had a chance to tie. But a five-second inbound violation gave the ball back to Golden State. Curry then calmly sank two free throws to put the game out of reach.
What’s Next?
With the victory, the Warriors are officially locked in as the No. 7 seed and will face the second-seeded Houston Rockets in what promises to be a high-octane series. The Rockets, led by rising star Jalen Green and veteran anchor Alperen Şengün, will offer a different kind of challenge.
For the Grizzlies, their season isn’t over just yet. They’ll face the winner of the Sacramento Kings vs. Dallas Mavericks matchup for the coveted No. 8 seed. It’s do or die for Memphis in their next game, and they’ll need Morant at 100% to stay alive.
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This game will go down as one of the more memorable Play-In Tournament matchups. For Golden State, it’s a redemption story—rebounding from a turbulent season to lock in a playoff spot. For Memphis, it’s a wake-up call. A team once seen as a dark horse contender now teeters on the brink of elimination.
And for fans? This is what playoff basketball is all about—stars rising, underdogs battling, and every second mattering.
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