Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr called Thursday night’s 99-98 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers a “gut punch,” praising his team’s effort and energy despite the narrow defeat.
“The effort was phenomenal. Felt like we really deserved to win,” Kerr said, emphasizing the energy and commitment of his players.
Kerr singled out De’Anthony Melton, returning from injury, noting, “Play him the whole fourth quarter. He’s like a plus 17 or something… watching him compete out there, it was a beautiful effort.” He also praised Pat Spencer for his late-game performance: “Tonight was a no-brainer. Pat was just incredible out there and controlled the game.”
The coach reflected on roster adjustments, explaining, “Without Steph for sure, he’s got to be out there… he can win you games like he almost did tonight, but if he doesn’t play, he brings the same energy the next game.” Kerr also stressed the depth of the Warriors, noting, “We played 14 people tonight… a lot of guys can help us win.”
On late-game execution, Kerr admitted the inbounds plays were tricky: “We had to inbound it three or four times in the last 30 or 40 seconds… Buddy and Pat came into the same area. It was just an unfortunate play.” Despite the comeback, Kerr called the loss “a gut punch… this one’s going to sting.”
The coach emphasized learning from setbacks: “You always learn from wins and losses… can we find groups out there consistently that can play together, compete together, take care of the ball… have that competitive spirit. Have that be your identity.”
Kerr updated on Draymond Green, who exited with a foot injury, saying, “He looks good. He’s felt good… we’ll be very careful with him and see how he’s doing in Cleveland.” He also praised the two-way impact of Melton, noting, “Huge… you can see the speed, the energy… can handle the ball, can play off the ball. Melt’s a hell of a player.”
Philadelphia overcame a 24-point deficit late in the third quarter, with Tyrese Maxey scoring 35 points and tipping in the go-ahead basket with 0.9 seconds remaining. Joel Embiid returned to add 12 points and six rebounds.
Golden State battled through absences of Curry, Butler, and Green, with contributions from Jonathan Kuminga and Brandin Podziemski. Despite shooting 42% overall and forcing 19 turnovers, the Warriors fell just short after a late defensive lapse.
Philadelphia moves to 12–9, with a road trip to Milwaukee on Friday, while Golden State drops to 11–12 and continues its road swing in Cleveland on Saturday.
