Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr praised forward Jonathan Kuminga following the team’s 131-118 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday night at Chase Center, calling his performance “fantastic” during his postgame press conference.
Kuminga recorded 25 points, 10 rebounds, and four assists in the win, marking his third double-digit rebounding effort in four games. Kerr highlighted the 23-year-old’s impact on both ends of the floor, particularly his rebounding and physicality.
“JK has been fantastic,” Kerr said. “It just feels like he’s found his spot with this group, playing with Jimmy and Dre on the front line. The way he’s rebounding, the way he’s attacking the rim, that’s what makes him special.”
Kerr noted that Kuminga’s athleticism and energy are changing the team’s dynamic. “When he’s playing to that talent, to that ability, it changes our team, and it changes his game,” Kerr added.
The Warriors improved to 3-1 after outscoring Memphis 36-24 in the third quarter. Kerr pointed to that stretch as the turning point. “That was the key stretch,” he said. “Winning that quarter and extending our lead. Moses, throughout the second half, knocked down shot after shot. It was great. We finally created some separation and kept the lead.”
Moses Moody scored 20 points and hit consecutive 3-pointers in that decisive third-quarter run, while Brandin Podziemski added 23 points and 6-of-9 shooting from beyond the arc. Kerr credited the team’s depth and balanced scoring effort.
“My favorite thing is when we can get 10, 12 guys contributing to a win,” Kerr said. “Every night’s different, but when everybody feels engaged and important, there’s a spirit that’s captured within the team. This group has a real chance to do that.”
Draymond Green dished out 10 assists before fouling out, while Jimmy Butler contributed 20 points in his fourth game with the team. Stephen Curry finished with 16 points and six assists.
Kerr also praised Podziemski and Moody for combining for 10 three-pointers. “It’s a great night for Brandin. He and Moses knocking down 10 threes combined was really impressive and fun to watch,” he said.
Golden State will face the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday as part of a back-to-back set, while Memphis will travel to Phoenix to meet the Suns on Wednesday.
