Pat Spencer described the Golden State Warriors’ 99-94 victory against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Saturday as a testament to the team’s resilience and energy.
Any win we can get right now…great energy in the locker room. Just competed our butts off tonight,” he said, emphasizing the importance of the team’s effort while key players were sidelined.
Spencer, making his first start, scored a career-high 19 points, marking his third consecutive game scoring at least 15. He credited the opportunity to handle the ball and orchestrate the offense for his confidence. “I’ve always been confident, man. This year they’ve allowed me to kind of orchestrate a little bit, have the ball in my hands, get other guys involved, make plays,” he explained.
On his shooting development, Spencer highlighted the long-term work required to refine his jump shot. “It’s been years…couldn’t shoot the ball at all in college and first couple years out. Had some coaches I worked with and just put the hours in,” he said, noting the support of the Warriors’ player development staff.
The guard said the significant improvement came over the summer and credited more consistent playing time for boosting his comfort on the floor. “Anybody that plays this game will tell you that you have the ball in your hands a little bit more. It’s just a level of comfort,” Spencer said, describing how his role has evolved from a high-energy bench presence to a primary playmaker.
Spencer also reflected on the competitive environment, including fan interaction and in-game energy. “I just like competing…cornhole, ping pong, you name it, I’m competing. So the energy was great in here all night,” he said, underscoring the intensity that carried the Warriors through a slow start.
Despite the team shooting just 4 of 23 in the first quarter, Spencer and his teammates rallied to build a second-half lead, holding off a late Cleveland push led by Donovan Mitchell. Spencer’s playmaking, alongside contributions from Gui Santos, Buddy Hield, and Quinton Post, was crucial in navigating the Cavaliers’ fourth-quarter surge.
Looking forward, Spencer expressed optimism about sustaining his performance. “I feel pretty poised out there…when the coaching staff gives you that level of confidence, it’s pretty easy to go out there,” he said, signaling that he is embracing a larger role as the Warriors continue navigating a season without several key stars.
