Curry Returns to NBA Riding a Wave of National Team Success

Stephen Curry found an ideal way to bounce back after his early NBA Play-In loss to Sacramento: by securing an Olympic gold medal with his National Team. In doing so, he reasserted his dominance on the global stage, proving that he remains one of basketball's elite leaders.

Golden State in the Play-In Tournament 

Keegan Murray scored 32 points, and De’Aaron Fox contributed 24 as the Sacramento Kings secured a decisive 118-94 victory over the Golden State Warriors on Tuesday night, keeping their hopes alive in the play-in tournament. With this win, Sacramento went on to face the Pelicans on Friday night, aiming to clinch the eighth seed in the playoffs after breaking a 16-year playoff drought last season.  

This game marked a significant moment for the Kings, who avenged their Game 7 loss to the Warriors in last year’s first round. Sacramento outplayed Golden State by maintaining better possession and being more agile in securing loose balls, leading to one of the franchise's most impactful victories in two decades. 

The defeat marked Golden State's third playoff absence in the last five seasons, including two losses in the play-in tournament. The Warriors struggled significantly, committing 16 turnovers, allowing 15 offensive rebounds, and giving up numerous open three-point shots. This performance starkly contrasted the championship team that won four titles between 2015 and 2022. 

Klay Thompson struggled mightily, missing all 10 field goal attempts, and Stephen Curry, who finished with 22 points, did not receive enough support. For much of the game, Curry was closely guarded by Keon Ellis, an undrafted player on a two-way contract until February and added 15 points while showcasing solid defensive skills.  

Harrison Barnes and Domantas Sabonis also contributed significantly, scoring 17 points and 16 points with 12 rebounds, respectively. Golden State briefly reduced the deficit to one point early in the third quarter. Still, Sacramento responded with a decisive 19-5 run, featuring a couple of three-pointers from Ellis, extending their lead back to 15 points.  

From then on, the Kings maintained control throughout the fourth quarter, culminating in chants of "Light the beam!" as the game drew close. 

Steph Curry in the 2024 Paris Olympics 

Golden State's departure from the 2024 postseason had a positive aspect for Stephen Curry. The four-time NBA champion quickly shifted his focus to the Olympics through his summer commitments with Team USA, which prevented him from dwelling on the Warriors' disappointing season.  

This opportunity allowed Curry to channel his energy into preparing for a significant international competition rather than wallowing in frustration over the team's unsuccessful campaign?. 

“Thankfully, I had the Olympics to look forward to, so I didn’t spend five months just sitting at home,” Curry said during his press conference at Warriors media day. He positively views the sequence of events following Golden State's defeat to Sacramento in the play-in tournament, seeing the Paris Olympics as a potential highlight of his career, particularly due to his impressive performance in the final two games?. 

Curry’s focus on the Olympics allowed him to channel his energy into something productive and meaningful rather than dwelling on the disappointment of the Warriors' early exit from the playoffs. His eagerness to participate internationally underscores his dedication to the game and commitment to contributing to Team USA’s success?. 

USA vs. France 

In the thrilling Final against the host nation, France, the Americans triumphed with a score of 98-87. Curry demonstrated his sharpshooting prowess by scoring all 24 points from beyond the arc, making 8 of 12 attempts. Notably, he was perfect from three-point range in the game's last three minutes, sinking all four attempts to help fend off a fierce comeback from France. 

Curry reflected on his crucial three-pointer against France during his media day press conference. When asked about the moment he took the shot while being double-teamed. Curry explained his mindset: "I see the two guys, but I'm already in rhythm. As long as I get it off, I feel like I'm going to make it. I see both of them as soon as I shoot it, their hands up..." 

The shot became even more memorable due to the reactions of his teammates. "They didn't expect me to shoot it; I'm sure they were ready for a pass back to the weak side. But as soon as it went in, seeing Bron do the gesture and watching the guys on the bench, K (Kevin Durant) threw his head back in amazement," he recalled. 

After the Olympics, fans anticipate a rejuvenated Steph Curry, high off the fire he had during the 2024 Olympics. Because of Team USA’s win, Steph Curry aims to do better than last year’s unsuccessful campaign. With high expectations and NBA odds, Steph Curry and the Golden State are eager to have a better 24-25 NBA season. 

Final Words 

Despite experiencing a setback earlier this year, Steph Curry has chosen to view it as a positive motivator for his performance in the 2024 Paris Olympics. This renewed sense of determination fuels his commitment to excel. As he prepares for the upcoming season, Curry will rejoin the Golden State Warriors for the 2024-25 campaign, continuing to showcase his exceptional shooting skills and solidify his reputation as one of the NBA's top sharpshooters.