Andrew Wiggins delivered a standout performance with 30 points, propelling the Golden State Warriors (12-3) to a 112-108 win over the New Orleans Pelicans (4-13) in the NBA Cup on Friday night.
The victory secured the Warriors’ spot in the knockout rounds as they improved to 3-0 in West Group C.
The Pelicans fell to 1-2 in group play and suffered their 10th loss in 11 games. Trey Murphy III led New Orleans with 24 points, but his missed three-pointer in the final seconds sealed their fate. Draymond Green grabbed the rebound and sank two free throws to finalize the score.
Golden State’s depth proved crucial as Wiggins received support from Stephen Curry, who contributed 19 points, and Draymond Green, who added 11 points, eight rebounds, and five assists. Buddy Hield came off the bench to score 12 points, including critical free throws in the game’s final moments.
For New Orleans, Jeremiah Robinson-Earl scored 19 points and grabbed 12 rebounds, while Brandon Ingram and Brandon Boston Jr. added 18 and 16 points, respectively.
The injury-depleted Pelicans fielded their 12th different starting lineup this season, with rookie center Yves Missi sidelined due to a shoulder injury.
The Warriors dominated the boards, outrebounding New Orleans 52-43. Golden State also demonstrated balanced scoring, with Brandin Podziemski contributing 11 points off the bench.
Despite shooting just 32.4% from beyond the arc, the Warriors’ resilience and execution in key moments proved decisive.
The Pelicans, shooting 30.8% from three-point range, missed opportunities to capitalize on Golden State’s misfires. Murphy’s five three-pointers kept New Orleans competitive, but the team could not secure the victory.
This win guarantees Golden State the top spot in West Group C, bolstered by Denver’s loss to Dallas earlier in the evening. The Warriors’ consistent play in the inaugural NBA Cup has highlighted their ability to contend under pressure.
