Warriors lose heartbreaker to Kings; Eliminated from In-Season Tournament

Liam O'Connor

November 28, 2023

(Steph Curry gets a 3 point shot contested by two kings players)

The Warriors lost in the last seconds of the game 124-123 after the Kings made a roaring second half comeback. The stakes were high as the outcome determined the advancement in the i NBA in-season tournament, especially after the Minnesota Timberwolves' earlier victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The scenario was clear: a Warriors win by 12 or more points meant advancing to the knockout stage, while a Kings win or a loss by 11 or fewer points allowed Sacramento to advance.

The game already carried heightened intensity due to the proximity, their playoff series a year ago, the contrasting roles of an aging dynasty versus up-and-comers, and the ongoing rivalry between Draymond Green and Domantas Sabonis.

The Warriors started strong, with Steph Curry, Andrew Wiggins, and Klay Thompson showcasing exceptional basketball. Green and Kevon Looney dominated defensively, and the Warriors found themselves with a 30-18 lead, precisely the margin needed to advance.

Despite a 10-point run from Sacramento, the Warriors responded effectively. Thompson's free throws and Gary Payton II's buzzer-beater extended the lead to 37-29. The second quarter featured a 12-0 run, but Chris Paul's absence due to injury led to increased turnovers for the Warriors.

Wiggins played aggressively in the second quarter, displaying beautiful ball movement, and the Warriors extended their lead to 24 points. However, Sacramento rallied in the third quarter, consistently cutting into the lead. Wiggins delivered an outstanding performance, but the Warriors' defense weakened, and turnovers became problematic.

Payton's injury further fueled Sacramento's momentum, reducing the Warriors' lead to nine points entering the fourth quarter. The once comfortable buffer for tournament advancement now seemed precarious.

The fourth quarter witnessed a dramatic shift, with the Kings dominating hustle plays and the Warriors struggling to match their physicality. Sacramento took the lead with 5:46 remaining, marking a stunning turnaround from the Warriors' 24-point advantage.

Despite late efforts from Curry, Wiggins, and Moses Moody, the Warriors fell short. A 24-point lead turned into a heartbreaking loss, eliminating them from the in-season tournament.

While Curry and Wiggins finished with impressive individual performances, the Warriors now face the LA Clippers on Thursday, aiming to bounce back.

(Draymond Green lays on the ground after a foul call)