In a breathtaking display of offensive firepower, Stephen Curry sent a resounding message to the NBA during the Golden State Warriors’ 118-111 preseason victory over the Portland Trail Blazers on Tuesday in Portland. The two-time MVP erupted for 28 points in just 27 minutes, leading a depleted Warriors squad to overcome an 18-point deficit and showcasing the kind of mid-season form that has made him a perennial nightmare for opposing defenses.
Curry’s Masterclass: A Free-Throw Frenzy and Long-Range Barrage
Curry’s performance was a clinic in efficiency and adaptability, amplified by the NBA’s new “high five” foul rule, which penalizes defenders for contact with a shooter’s hand, wrist, or arm during or after their follow-through. The rule’s impact was immediate, as Curry drew fouls on two 3-point attempts in the first quarter alone, converting a perfect 7-for-7 from the free-throw line to notch 10 points in just eight minutes. By the third quarter, his field goal efficiency caught fire, with 13 points on 4-for-7 shooting, including three more free throws. Curry finished with 28 points, six rebounds, five assists, four 3-pointers, and an astounding 12-for-13 from the charity stripe.
The Warriors’ perimeter dominance was the cornerstone of their comeback, as they doubled up Portland from beyond the arc, sinking 18 threes to the Blazers’ nine. Curry’s flamethrower ignited the rally, but his teammates followed suit, with Golden State’s depth shining through despite the absence of key starters Jimmy Butler III, Draymond Green, and Moses Moody.
Rookie Revelation: Will Richard Steps Up
With injuries forcing Head Coach Steve Kerr to shuffle his lineup, rookie guard Will Richard seized the opportunity in his first career start. Selected 56th overall after a National Championship run with the Florida Gators, Richard proved his mettle against Portland’s tenacious ball pressure. His two 3-pointers during a critical 22-7 second-quarter run helped slash the Blazers’ lead to one point. Richard finished with 13 points, six rebounds, and three made 3-pointers, earning praise for his composure and decision-making as an additional ball handler.
Kuminga’s Flash of Brilliance Cut Short
Jonathan Kuminga was poised for a standout night, contributing seven points, six rebounds, and four assists in 18 minutes. His highlight-reel moment came via a ferocious left-handed dunk, echoing his poster slam in Los Angeles two nights prior. However, his night ended abruptly after a heated exchange with officials. Following a no-call on a layup attempt, Kuminga’s protest earned him a technical foul and ejection just before halftime, cutting short a promising performance.
Third-Quarter Surge Seals the Deal
The Warriors’ resilience shone in the third quarter, where they seized control with a 13-0 run to take a 76-73 lead. Curry and Al Horford each poured in five points during the spurt, while Buddy Hield added a 3-pointer. Gary Payton II capped the quarter with a buzzer-beating triple, giving Golden State a four-point cushion entering the final frame. The Warriors’ ability to battle back from multiple deficits underscored their depth and determination, even in a preseason contest.
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With a 3-1 preseason record, including two wins over Portland, the Warriors are firing on all cylinders as the regular season looms. Curry’s performance was a chilling reminder of his ability to dominate games in mere minutes, leveraging both his sharpshooting and the new foul rule to devastating effect. As Golden State integrates its young talent and navigates early-season injuries, Curry’s supernova form signals that the Warriors remain a force to be reckoned with. The rest of the NBA has been warned: the flamethrower is already in mid-season form.