Curry leads Warriors to NBA Cup thriller over Mavericks, spoils Thompson’s Bay Area return
Stephen Curry poured in 37 points to guide the Golden State Warriors to a 120-117 NBA Cup victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Tuesday, spoiling former teammate Klay Thompson’s return to San Francisco. Thompson, a key part of Golden State’s four NBA titles, received a hero’s welcome in his first game back since joining Dallas in July, with fans and Golden State staff honoring the 34-year-old with applause and cheers.
Thompson’s 22-point showing, including six three-pointers, excited the crowd but couldn’t overshadow Curry, who delivered a dominant final push. With Dallas up 114-108 with just over three minutes left, Curry responded with a stunning 10-point run, including a long-range three, to push the Warriors ahead 118-114. He then sank two clutch free throws to clinch the win.
“There was a lot of emotion, but both teams wanted to win,” Curry told TNT. “It was a playoff-like atmosphere, with great players making great plays. That’s why we love the competition.”
For Thompson, it was “surreal” to face Curry. “It hurts to be on the other side of one of his flurries,” Thompson said. “Guy got hot at the end and made some ridiculous shots. It sucks.”
Elsewhere, Joel Embiid’s season debut couldn’t stop the 76ers from falling 111-99 to the New York Knicks. Embiid, returning from injury and suspension, tallied 13 points in a sluggish outing as the Knicks took control.
The NBA Cup format, introduced last season, pits 30 teams in group play, with knockout rounds leading to semi-finals and finals in Las Vegas from December 14-17.
(Source: AFP)
