The Golden State Warriors secured a decisive victory over the Phoenix Suns on March 5, 2024, triumphing 118-107 at the Chase Center. This win marked the Warriors’ fourth consecutive home victory, showcasing their offensive prowess and depth, even against a depleted Suns squad.
Strong Starts and Key Contributions
The Warriors exploded out of the gate, scoring 68 points in the first half. Their impressive shooting performance included a remarkable 7-of-11 from three-point range in the opening quarter. Stephen Curry led the charge with 28 points, including five three-pointers, reaffirming his status as a perennial star in the league.
However, the standout performance came from Moses Moody, who contributed 24 points off the bench, shooting 7-of-11 overall and matching Curry’s three-point success with five of his own. Moody’s breakout performance was critical for a player seeking consistency in his role. He reflected on his night, stating, “Sometimes you just feel it. Tonight was one of those nights.”
The Warriors also benefitted from Quinten Post, a 7-foot rookie from the Netherlands, who added 14 points, hitting four three-pointers and delivering a memorable block that energized the crowd. Head coach Steve Kerr recognized Post’s growing impact, indicating that he may receive increased playing time moving forward.
Suns Fight Back
Despite being shorthanded, the Suns put forth a determined effort. Devin Booker delivered a season-high 38 points, converting all 11 of his free throw attempts. Mark Williams also had a significant impact, contributing 16 points and 16 rebounds, while Grayson Allen added another 16 points.
Phoenix mounted a comeback in the third quarter, executing a 20-6 run that narrowed the Warriors’ lead from 19 points to just nine heading into the final period. This shift in momentum put pressure on Golden State, making their once-comfortable advantage feel precarious.
When the game tightened, the Warriors relied on their experience and depth rather than panicking. Brandin Podziemski chipped in with 13 points, and Buddy Hield added 12, reflecting the balanced scoring that has become a trademark of this year’s team. Kerr emphasized the importance of contributions from multiple players, stating, “We can’t just rely on Steph every night. We need contributions from everyone, and tonight we got them.”
Unfortunately for the Warriors, Jimmy Butler did not return for the second half due to lower back soreness, having scored just two points in his limited play. His absence could be a concern as the team prepares for a back-to-back game against Sacramento.
As the Warriors improve to a 5-3 record, they solidify their position in the Pacific Division, currently sitting behind the Los Angeles Lakers. Meanwhile, the Suns fall to 3-5 overall, struggling to find their footing without key players Dillon Brooks and Jalen Green, both sidelined by injuries.
This victory not only highlights the Warriors’ ability to perform as a cohesive unit but also indicates they are finding a rhythm that could be sustainable as the season progresses. The collective effort demonstrated in this game signals a promising outlook for the team as they continue their journey through the season.
