Stay Golden, Warriors!

The Golden State Warriors have always had heart and now they ALSO have some real talent. Last night, I was lucky enough to catch a home game. I’ve been living in Boston for the past few years and it has been way too long since I’ve been home to see them in action. My dad is a huge fan and has told me repeatedly how much they have grown and improved this season. I have not witnessed this evolution first hand because I am never able to stay up that late (EST) and watch a full game.

Warriors vs. Toronto – Last night’s game (December 3, 2013)

The first half of the game was almost an embarrassment and made me remember what it’s like to root for a team that isn’t used to winning. The Raptors scored 65 points in the first half and it seemed as though anything they "threw up" landed in the basket. The Warriors crowd was in shock – mostly quiet but also angry. The refs seemed to be in Toronto’s pocket and the drunken masses took most of their frustration out on the bad judgment of the refs. Toronto led 75-48 with 9:20 left in the third quarter and took an 18-point lead into the fourth. It seemed like all hope was lost. My dad was regretting buying the “good seats” and my mom considered leaving early to beat the Oakland traffic.

Although I had seen no real proof that the Warriors were a changed team - I did not give up hope. This team even a few years back (with a losing record) always had heart and played like champions at home. Luckily, I was right and the Warriors showed Toronto how they are still one of the BIGGEST comeback teams in the NBA. Stephen Curry with help from Klay Thompson (with six three-pointers), Harrison Barnes, and David Lee brought their team back from the trenches. Curry had three three-pointers and ten assists that contributed to his personal comeback ending the game with 27 points – while he had only four points in the entire first half. The crowd exploded and was on their feet when the Warriors made their run with about 8 minutes to go in the fourth quarter. The fans jumped up and down and celebrated with each other. The final score was 112 to 103.

Thank you, Warriors for showing me your blood, sweat, and tears and making me one happy homesick fan. Stay Golden!