Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler combined for 75 points as the Golden State Warriors edged the Memphis Grizzlies 121-116 in a thrilling NBA Play-In Tournament matchup on Tuesday night, booking their place in the playoffs, MySportDab Reports.
Playing at a packed Chase Center, the Warriors looked in control early, racing to a 20-point lead in the first half. But Memphis roared back in the second half, briefly taking the lead in the fourth quarter.
Just when the game seemed to be slipping away, Curry stepped up with a clutch 15-point final period to guide Golden State to victory.
The two-time MVP finished with 37 points, including six three-pointers, while Butler led the way with 38 in a vintage all-around performance.
“I’m telling you, that’s a Batman if I’ve ever seen a Batman – always coming to save the day,” Butler said of Curry postgame. “He’s so poised, so calm, and he was a huge part of getting us the win.”
The victory means Golden State will now face the second-seeded Houston Rockets in the first round of the Western Conference playoffs.
Memphis, meanwhile, were left to rue missed opportunities after their spirited comeback fell short. Desmond Bane led the charge with 30 points, while Ja Morant added 22 despite rolling his ankle in the third quarter.
Morant left the court briefly but returned to finish the game, though he appeared limited by the injury.
The Grizzlies still have a lifeline as they await the winner of Wednesday’s play-in clash between the Sacramento Kings and Dallas Mavericks for a shot at the final playoff spot in the West.
In the Eastern Conference, Cole Anthony starred with 26 points off the bench to help the Orlando Magic cruise past the Atlanta Hawks 120-95 and secure their spot in the postseason.
