Whoever saw Steph Curry line up for the 35-foot three-point game winner against the Oklahoma City Thunder in late February, you understand that it’s about time The Tam News addresses the phenomenon that is Warriors basketball.
Let’s begin with their all-stars: Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Klay Thompson. I think there almost seems to be a counter culture developing around Steph Curry because of his nonchalant, “Smug” attitude. “He thinks he’s the [expletive],” they say. “He thinks he’s the best.” Folks, he is. He has already broken his own single-season three-point record (also the NBA record) of 356 and there are still 8 games left in the season. In fact, Stephen Curry has had four of the six best three point seasons in the history of the NBA.
Let’s shift the focus to the more likeable and proportionally vital Green. He’s got the most triple-doubles in a single season in franchise history (11) which is the second-most in the league. He’s the ultimate leader, team player, whatever you want to call the attitude of the team, that’s him. And last but not least, number eleven, the number-two best three point shooter in the league, and number one in my heart: Klay Thompson. Possibly the streakiest shooter I’ve ever seen, Thompson can literally be so hot shooting that he will not miss a single shot (even ones after the whistle) for an entire quarter. He is also having a historic three-point shooting season alongside Curry with 255 three-pointers thus far. The reason I like him is that he can do anything, including play intense defense, and he’s getting better.
When the Warriors regain Andrew Bogut and Festus Ezeli, their extremely skillful roster will be at full strength. The Warriors have not lost a home game in over a full calendar year, and they are 11-1 in games decided by 5 points or less (clutch). Their postseason potential is extremely promising and will surely produce some great basketball.
Writing this piece is my attempt to alert the students of Tam High that history is unfolding. The Warriors play the game so elegantly and fluidly, their capabilities outreach any other team. When they’re on, even non-basketball fans can be entertained. There is not a team in history that can score more efficiently than them. When they make a run they can close any gap or widen any lead. They’re unstoppable.
The fact of the matter is, if you’re not watching the Warriors right now, watch them. There may never be a team this special ever again. And if you’re already a fan, don’t take them for granted. Enjoy witnessing every moment of this season and those to come. Golden State is truly in a golden state.