Stephen Curry led the Golden State Warriors with 24 points, but the team fell 114-109 to the Indiana Pacers on Saturday at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
Curry acknowledged the team’s struggles throughout the game, particularly in the third quarter. “There are parts of the game where we just…made it too hard on all of us with not getting organized, bad possessions, a little lack of energy. And you give a team like that life,” he said.
The Warriors built an 88-82 lead entering the fourth quarter but failed to close it out, allowing Quenton Jackson to score 12 of his 25 points in the final period. Curry stressed the importance of better decision-making in key moments. “I got to be better just being more decisive, more aggressive, even not to shoot, but to play make and get everybody organized,” he said.
Curry highlighted the need for professionalism and preparation as a veteran. “Just be professional, understand what you need to do to get your body, your mind ready to bring your best self…you have to demonstrate that, execute it,” he added.
On defense, Curry noted that turnovers and momentum plays were costly. “There were a couple possessions…turnovers in the third quarter…you give them a fast break layup. It changes the momentum,” he said.
Despite the loss, Curry appreciated the opportunity to inspire younger players. “I’m blessed…just this stage, this platform, the ability to continue to have fun doing what I love to do and how that means to other people is very surreal,” he said.
The Pacers, playing without key contributors Tyrese Haliburton, Bennedict Mathurin, Andrew Nembhard, Obi Toppin, and T.J. McConnell, relied on energy and ball movement to secure their first win of the season. Pascal Siakam scored 27 points, Aaron Nesmith added 31, and Jackson provided a late-game spark.
Golden State was led by Curry and Jimmy Butler, who scored 20 points, while Jonathan Kuminga contributed 17. The Warriors struggled to create separation and maintain defensive intensity in the fourth quarter, allowing Indiana to outscore them 32-21 in the final frame.
The Pacers improved to 1-5, and the Warriors dropped to 4-3. Indiana will host the Milwaukee Bucks on Monday, while Golden State returns home to face the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday.
