On January 16th, Beijing time, the Golden State Warriors faced off against the Minnesota Timberwolves in an intense match. The Warriors emerged victorious with a close score of 116-115, ending their two-game losing streak. Following this victory, the Warriors' ranking in the Western Conference jumped from 12th to 10th, surpassing both the Suns and Spurs to secure a spot in the play-in tournament area. Stephen Curry, the Warriors' point guard, had an outstanding performance, making 7 out of 12 three-point attempts and going 4 for 4 from the free-throw line, scoring a total of 31 points and dishing out 8 assists. Notably, the 36-year-old Curry also set a unique record in NBA history during this game, becoming the first player to achieve such a feat since the league's inception 78 years ago.
In the first quarter, Curry started strong, hitting all four of his three-point attempts, scoring 12 points and contributing 3 assists, leading the Warriors to a significant 34-12 lead. Perhaps due to the large point difference, the Warriors became somewhat relaxed. In the second quarter, the Timberwolves launched a scoring spree, with Edwards hitting multiple threes to reduce the gap to 13 points. It's worth noting that the Warriors have been in poor form recently, dropping to 12th place outside the play-in tournament area. However, Curry stepped up at this critical moment, his precise three-point shots piercing through the opposition like sharp swords. After the game, Curry admitted that the team has been at its peak for many years and has full confidence in overcoming any opponent.
In the second half, Curry's hot hand continued as he hit another three three-pointers. Throughout the game, he made 7 out of 12 three-point shots, playing a crucial role in helping the Warriors secure a narrow victory over the Timberwolves by just one point. This victory was particularly valuable. Curry was the hero of the game, as the 36-year-old remained the key to the Warriors' offensive firepower. The game was so intense that the Warriors still relied on Curry until the final quarter. He played for a total of 37 minutes and 20 seconds, with his three-pointer in the fourth quarter sealing the win, which was also his longest playing time this season.
According to official NBA statistics, Curry set an unprecedented record in this game. He has now scored over 30 points 115 times while attempting fewer than five free-throws, making him the first player in NBA history to achieve this feat more than 100 times. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is second with 93 times, followed by LeBron James with 77 times. Additionally, since 1965, Curry has been the point guard with the most 30+ point games, repeatedly defeating opponents with his three-point shooting and redefining the role of a point guard.
The 36-year-old Curry has never stopped moving forward. Despite being a four-time champion, holding two regular-season MVPs, and one Finals MVP, he still faces criticism. However, Curry has proven himself with numerous honors and record-breaking achievements. It must be said that Curry's emergence has indeed revolutionized the traditional role of a point guard.