Remarkable Stephen Curry surge drives Golden State Warriors to hard-earned win over Portland Trail Blazers
Despite not starting game four, Curry decided it after scoring 17 of his 40 points in overtime to put Golden State in a commanding 3-1 series lead over Portland.
Despite not starting game four, Stephen Curry decided it after scoring an NBA-record 17 of his 40 points in overtime to put the Golden State Warriors in a commanding 3-1 series lead over the Portland Trail Blazers following their 132-125 victory.
Playing for the first time since he was injured in game four of the first-round series against Houston, Curry was rusty for three quarters and sensational down the stretch after the Warriors trailed by as much as 16 points.
Originally expected to play about 25 minutes off the bench, Curry picked up a heavier workload in the second half after Shaun Livingston, who had been starting in his absence, was ejected in the second quarter after arguing a call and picking up two technical fouls.
The Warriors can win the series Wednesday night at home in game five.
Damian Lillard finished with 36 points and 10 assists for Portland.
Curry’s fast-break layup gave the defending NBA champions a 120-118 lead with 2:21 left in the extra period. He followed with a 3-pointer, pounding his chest and pumping his fist in celebration, posturing for the courtside fans.
Harrison Barnes’ layup extended the lead to 125-118 and Portland couldn’t catch up. Klay Thompson finished with 23.