In a thrilling display of resilience and depth, the Golden State Warriors staged a jaw-dropping 21-point comeback to defeat the Portland Trail Blazers 129-123 in their second preseason game on Wednesday night. Trailing by 20 points entering the fourth quarter, the Warriors’ bench, led by an unlikely hero, second-year big man Quinten Post, ignited a 51-point explosion in the final frame to secure the victory. This game wasn’t just a preseason win—it was a statement about the Warriors’ depth and determination as they gear up for a championship-caliber season.
A Slow Start for the Starters
The Warriors’ veteran core—Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green—saw limited action as they continue their gradual ramp-up for the regular season. Curry dazzled early with an 11-point performance, including a slick four-point play in the first quarter. Butler chipped in 12 points, while Green added 9 points, providing a steady foundation. However, the trio sat out the second half, leaving the stage open for Golden State’s bench to shine.
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Quinten Post: The Unexpected Hero
Enter Quinten Post, the 25-year-old second-year big man who emerged as the game’s standout. Post erupted for a team-high 20 points in 25 minutes, with 15 of those points coming in the pivotal fourth quarter. Alongside his scoring, he contributed four rebounds and three assists, showcasing his versatility as a stretch big. His performance was a revelation for a Warriors team that struggled to find a reliable backup big man last season.
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Reflecting on the comeback, Post credited the team’s defensive intensity and timely shooting. “The (Trail Blazers) came out playing very aggressive,” he said. “They played a really good game. We were down 20 (points) in the fourth (quarter), and I thought that last group—we really picked it up defensively. (We put) pressure on the ball, and knocking down some shots helps. It was good to win the game, but definitely a lot to work on for us.”
Post’s emergence as a clutch performer could be a game-changer for Golden State. Last season, the team lacked a consistent stretch big off the bench, but Post’s ability to step up in big moments suggests he could fill that void in the 2025-26 campaign.
Bench Depth Steals the Show
While Post was the headliner, the Warriors’ bench mob proved their worth as a collective unit. LJ Cryer was electric, dropping 14 points on an efficient 4-of-5 shooting, including a perfect 3-of-3 from beyond the arc. His plus-25 rating in just 12 minutes underscored his impact. Meanwhile, Pat Spencer played the role of floor general, orchestrating the offense with six points, three rebounds, and three assists in 12 minutes. His highlight-reel and-1 finish at the rim sent the bench into a frenzy and galvanized the comeback.
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The Warriors’ ability to erase a 21-point deficit without their star-studded starting lineup speaks volumes about their depth. For a team with championship aspirations, this kind of bench production is invaluable. As Post noted, the game was “kind of weird,” but the grit and heart displayed in the comeback were undeniable.
A Preseason Win With Bigger Implications
While it’s only the preseason, and the Trail Blazers aren’t projected to be a powerhouse this season, the Warriors’ comeback shouldn’t be dismissed. Pulling off a 21-point rally requires poise, teamwork, and relentless effort—qualities that translate to the regular season and playoffs. The game showcased Golden State’s ability to lean on their bench in high-pressure situations, a critical factor for a team aiming to compete for the NBA title.
Quinten Post’s breakout performance, combined with the contributions of Cryer and Spencer, sent a clear message: the Warriors’ depth is a weapon that opponents will need to reckon with. As the regular season approaches, Golden State’s bench, led by their emergency star, has already proven it can turn the tide when it matters most. The Trail Blazers never saw this comeback coming, and the rest of the league should take note—the Warriors are deeper and hungrier than ever.