Winning is contagious, yet lately the victories for Golden State haven’t been pretty. On an exhausting stretch of the schedule with five games in eight nights, the Warriors squeaked a 94-91 victory in Minnesota. Luckily, a win is a win and the first half of the franchise record breaking season ends with the Warriors owning the NBA’s Best Record at 42-9.
First year coach Steve Kerr, acknowledged the shaky play of the last four games joking: “I’m limping into the All-Star break like my team!” But seriously, he had nothing but praise for his players who bought into a team-first system from day one.
“I’m really proud of the guys,” said Kerr. “I’ve never seen a group that needs the break more than these guys. We’re so out of whack, but if you’re a good team, you find a way to win even when you’re not at your best.”
As a reward for the impressive mid-season record Kerr announced that both Splash brothers, Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson will start in the All-Start game in New York Sunday. The two led the team in scoring in Minneapolis, Curry with 25 points along with 8 assists and Thompson adding 14 in an off shooting night.
“We’re not playing to our standards but we’re figuring out a way to win,” explained Curry. “It’s confidence. We’re a great team, every piece of the puzzle is here. We get the win and that’s hard to do in this league.You have to enjoy the moment.”
For Thompson, the start is recognition for his outstanding play through 51 games.
“It’s exciting,” said a humble Thompson. “It’s great for me and my family. My family in the Northwest, and my family in the Bahamas. It’s going to be one awesome moment to start the game on such a big stage.”
Thompson will also compete in the 3-point challenge with Curry and perhaps hoping to change his image, number 11 will participate in the eight player fashion show.
“I’m going to try and get as much rest as possible,” said Thompson. “But it’s going to be an awesome experience. I’m really excited for it.”
Warriors fans are equally thrilled to watch Kerr, his entire coaching staff and the Splash Brothers show the country what the Bay Area has been witnessing all season; times they are changing.
“It’s an honor for our whole organization,” said Kerr. “It’s a great show of how far we’ve come as an organization and reward for all the great moves that have been made. The sell-out after sell-out, the team awards it’s all a reward for winning.”
And to those who feel the last few games signal a dangerous pattern, Kerr has reassuring words.
“Our offense is suffering because were not getting the rhythm and flow that is part of our ball movement game,” explained Kerr. “I feel like we know what we have to do. But our guys need a rest and to be re-charged.”
Rest is on the agenda for all but two Warriors who tonight are on their way to New York, but they’re not complaining.
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