The Warriors have, on the basis of events Friday night at Oracle Arena, found a new nemesis in the Milwaukee Bucks.
There was even a brief post-game jawing session to punctuate the sour feelings between the teams.
The defending champions eventually survived the frisky Bucks, taking a 121-112 win to even the score with the team that last Saturday handed them their first — and only — defeat of the season.
Klay Thompson scored 27 points and Stephen Curry poured in 26 to lead five Warriors scoring in double figures. Draymond Green tossed in 21, Festus Ezeli finished with 12 and Brandon Rush added 10.
Rush added 10 as the Warriors won their 30th consecutive home game.
Inasmuch as the Bucks led for most of this game’s 48 pulsating minutes, this victory was the result of more resilience and determination as the Warriors have shown in any game this season.
The Warriors survived despite allowing 70 points in the first half, the most any team has scored in any half against them this season -– and the most Milwaukee has score in any half this season.
Sports
The Warriors (26-1), who shot only 9-of-26 beyond the arc, outrebounded the Bucks 29-18 in the second half, including 16-11 in the final quarter.
STANDOUT PERFORMER
Thompson, Green and Curry share the honors.
Thompson’s line: 27 points, three rebounds, two assists, plus-22 for the game.
Green’s line: 21 points, nine rebounds and eight assists, plus-15.
Curry’s line: 26 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists, plus-13.
TURNING POINT
Down 100-89 with 8:54 left, the Warriors reentered their starters, who went on a 15-2 run to take a 104-102 lead with 4:45 left.
Though the Bucks managed to tie the score twice, the Warriors never again trailed, using a 13-4 run over the final 2:16 to pull away.
INJURY UPDATE
Warriors: F Harrison Barnes (L ankle sprain) and F Kevon Looney (hip surgery rehab) were listed as out and placed on the inactive list.
Bucks: C Greg Monroe (L MCL sprain) was listed as doubtful, cleared 90 minutes before tipoff and placed in the starting lineup. G Jerryd Bayless (L ankle sprain) and G Greivis Vasquez (R ankle surgery) were listed as out and placed on the inactive list.
WHAT’S NEXT
The Warriors return to action next Wednesday, when the face the Utah Jazz at Oracle Arena. Tipoff is scheduled for 7:35 p.m.
