The Golden State Warriors delivered a heart-pounding performance in their second preseason game on Wednesday night, October 8, 2025, against the Portland Trail Blazers, overcoming a 20-point deficit in the fourth quarter to secure a 129-123 victory. While the veteran stars like Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green played limited minutes, the bench, led by second-year big man Quinten Post, stole the show. This game showcased the Warriors’ depth and resilience, offering fans an exciting glimpse into the team’s potential for the 2025-26 NBA season. Let’s break down the game, the standout performances, and what this comeback means for Golden State’s championship aspirations.
The Game: A Tale of Two Halves
The Warriors’ clash with the Trail Blazers was a rollercoaster. Portland came out swinging, playing aggressively and building a commanding 20-point lead by the fourth quarter. The Warriors’ starters, including Stephen Curry (11 points, with a highlight four-point play), Jimmy Butler (12 points), and Draymond Green (9 points), saw limited action as coach Steve Kerr prioritized their ramp-up for the regular season. This left the door open for the bench to shine.
The turning point came in the fourth quarter, when Golden State erupted for an astonishing 51 points, flipping the game and clinching a six-point win. This explosive quarter highlighted the team’s depth and ability to rally under pressure, a hallmark of their championship pedigree. The comeback wasn’t just about offense; as Quinten Post noted, the Warriors “picked it up defensively,” applying pressure on the ball to disrupt Portland’s rhythm. This gritty performance, even in a preseason game, underscores the team’s potential to compete at the highest level.
Quinten Post: The Breakout Star
The hero of the night was undoubtedly Quinten Post, the 25-year-old second-year big man. Post led the Warriors with 20 points in 25 minutes, including an incredible 15 points in the fourth quarter alone. His stat line—four rebounds, three assists, and efficient scoring—demonstrated his versatility as a stretch big, addressing a critical need for Golden State. Last season, the Warriors struggled to find a reliable backup big who could stretch the floor, but Post’s performance suggests he’s ready to fill that role.
Post’s post-game comments reflect his level-headedness and team-first mentality. “The (Trail Blazers) came out playing very aggressive,” he said. “We were down 20 in the fourth, and I thought that last group—we really picked it up defensively.” He also acknowledged areas for improvement, calling the game “kind of weird” but emphasizing the importance of the win. His ability to step up in big moments, honed by last season’s challenges, signals a bright future for both him and the Warriors.
Bench Brilliance: Pat Spencer and LJ Cryer Step Up
While Post was the headliner, the Warriors’ bench depth was the real story. Pat Spencer and LJ Cryer played pivotal roles in the comeback. Spencer, acting as a floor general, contributed six points, three rebounds, and three assists in just 12 minutes. His highlight-reel and-1 finish at the rim electrified the crowd and swung momentum. Meanwhile, Cryer was a sharpshooting spark plug, dropping 14 points on 4-of-5 field goals, including a perfect 3-of-3 from beyond the arc. His +25 plus-minus in 12 minutes underscores his impact.
This bench performance is a promising sign for a Warriors team aiming for a championship. With the starters sitting out the second half, the reserves’ ability to orchestrate a 21-point comeback against a young but scrappy Portland squad highlights Golden State’s depth. As Post put it, “Knocking down some shots helps, but we’ll take it.” This depth could prove invaluable in a grueling 82-game season and playoff push.
Context and Significance
While the sports card above details the Warriors’ 103-86 victory over Portland on April 11, 2025, this recent preseason game on October 8 tells a different story of resilience. The Trail Blazers, projected to struggle this season, played with intensity, led by players like Donovan Clingan (14 points, 15 rebounds) and Jabari Walker (19 points off the bench). Yet, the Warriors’ ability to overcome a significant deficit in a game where their stars played limited minutes speaks volumes about their potential.
Preseason games don’t count toward standings, but they set the tone. For Golden State, this win reinforces their identity as a team that thrives under pressure, a trait that has defined their dynasty. The emergence of Post, alongside contributions from Spencer and Cryer, suggests the Warriors have addressed last season’s bench weaknesses. For fans, this game is a thrilling preview of what’s to come when the regular season tips off.
The Golden State Warriors’ 129-123 comeback victory over the Portland Trail Blazers in their second preseason game is a testament to their depth, grit, and championship aspirations. Quinten Post’s breakout performance, supported by Pat Spencer and LJ Cryer, showcased a bench ready to carry the load when the stars rest. While it’s only preseason, this 21-point rally against a feisty Portland team is a reminder of why the Warriors remain a force in the NBA. Fans, what do you think—can this bench depth propel Golden State to another title? Share your thoughts below and let’s keep the conversation going!