Steph leads with 36/7/9 & Big 4th Quarter for Gary Payton II in tonight’s win for the Warriors in Game 3 ⚔️
GS 104-93 HOU
Gary finished with 16 PTS, 3 REB, 7-9 FG
Draymond Green: 7 PTS, 8 REB, 4 AST, 2 STL, 3 BLK
The Golden State Warriors came into Game 3 knowing the importance of taking control of the series, and behind a masterful performance from Stephen Curry and a clutch 4th quarter from Gary Payton II, they walked away with a commanding win. Curry led the charge with 36 points, 7 rebounds, and 9 assists, continuing his MVP-level play, while Payton provided the late-game heroics to secure a 104-93 victory, putting the Warriors up 2-1 in the series.
Curry, as always, was a sight to behold. With his quick release and incredible ball-handling, he sliced through defenses, hitting 4 three-pointers and finding open teammates with his signature passes. His ability to pull defenders away from the basket opened up space for everyone else, allowing the Warriors to move the ball efficiently and take advantage of every opportunity. Curry’s poise in the clutch was unmatched — when his team needed a play, he was there to create or capitalize on it.
But despite Curry’s brilliance, the game wasn’t all about him. The Warriors know they need a balanced effort to be successful, and in this game, it was Gary Payton II who stepped up when it mattered most. After a back-and-forth battle for most of the game, the fourth quarter became Payton’s stage. With the game hanging in the balance, Payton turned up the heat. Whether it was a big steal, a crucial rebound, or a timely bucket, Payton’s defensive intensity and energy fueled the Warriors’ push to close out the game.
Payton’s offensive game may not be what fans usually expect, but his ability to make key plays in high-pressure moments is invaluable. He scored 10 points in the final quarter, including a key 3-pointer that pushed the Warriors’ lead to double digits. His all-around impact wasn’t just on offense — his tenacity on defense disrupted the opponent’s rhythm and gave Golden State the extra edge they needed to pull away. It’s moments like these that remind us of why Payton is such an essential piece for the Warriors, and his contributions are often the difference-maker in tight playoff games.
In addition to Curry and Payton, Draymond Green was his usual self, contributing to the team’s defensive intensity and adding 8 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists. Green’s energy, leadership, and versatility were key in keeping the Warriors locked in on both ends of the floor. While his numbers don’t always tell the full story, his impact is undeniable, particularly in high-stakes games like this one.
Klay Thompson, while not having his most efficient night, still played a key role in helping the Warriors maintain their lead throughout the game. Thompson’s shooting struggles from the floor were a factor, but his defense on the perimeter and his off-ball movement still forced the opposing defense to stretch and make adjustments. The Warriors are always at their best when Thompson is hitting shots, but even on nights when he’s not, his presence and ability to affect the game in other ways can’t be understated.
The key to Golden State’s success in Game 3 wasn’t just their star power but their depth. The Warriors’ bench, led by the likes of Jordan Poole and Kevon Looney, provided the necessary minutes to keep their stars fresh, while still contributing in meaningful ways. Poole hit several timely shots, providing a much-needed spark off the bench, and Looney continued to be a reliable force on the glass, collecting crucial rebounds in the second half.
As the clock wound down in the final minutes, it was clear that the Warriors had found their groove. Curry continued to deliver dagger shots, Payton was everywhere on defense, and the team’s collective effort on both ends ensured that the opponent never had a real chance to mount a comeback. This Game 3 victory was a total team effort, but Curry’s 36-point performance and Payton’s clutch fourth quarter were undoubtedly the standout moments.
Looking ahead to Game 4, the Warriors are riding high on this momentum. Curry continues to be the focal point of the offense, but with players like Payton stepping up when needed most, the Warriors are showing just how dangerous they can be as a complete unit. The defense, led by Green and Payton, is clicking, and the Warriors’ ability to execute in key moments is what sets them apart from their competition.
For now, it’s clear that when Curry is orchestrating the offense and Payton is locking in defensively, the Warriors are a team that’s tough to beat. With a 2-1 lead in the series, Golden State has put themselves in a strong position to control the flow of the postseason, and with Curry playing at this level, it looks like they’re only getting started.
#DubNation 💛💙
