Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr emphasized the importance of process over panic following the team’s 125-120 victory over the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday night at Frost Bank Center.
“We weren’t exactly panicking and we’re six and six, and there’s 70 games left, but we needed to rediscover our identity,” Kerr said.
Kerr praised the team’s ball movement and defensive effort, highlighting the new starting lineup that featured Jimmy Butler alongside Moses Moody and Will Richard for spacing and floor balance. “I liked the process. The ball was moving. Everybody was sprinting into ball screens, sprinting the floor, getting to our spots in transition, competing defensively,” Kerr noted.
The coach singled out the contributions of role players, particularly Gary Payton II, who returned after two weeks out of the rotation. “Gary was fantastic in the second half. A pro in every sense, always upbeat, positive, and ready,” Kerr said.
Stephen Curry led the Warriors with 46 points, including 29 in the second half, while going 15-for-16 from the free-throw line. Kerr reflected on Curry’s performance, calling it “routine” only in the context of witnessing him at the highest level over the past 11 years. “He’s our Tim Duncan. An incredible player and teammate. It’s great to see him back out there,” Kerr said.
Draymond Green also received high praise for his defense against Victor Wembanyama. Despite fouls and turnovers, Kerr emphasized the impact of Green’s effort. “The way he guarded Wemby was incredible… He just wins. That continuity with Steph is one of the reasons we’re still competing,” Kerr said.
Kerr noted that the Warriors’ competitive spirit was a key difference from the previous night’s loss against the Oklahoma City Thunder, which left the team out of sync. “The guys were embarrassed last night. In an 82-game season, you’ll have spells, but rediscovering our identity and competitive spirit was important,” Kerr said.
He also explained the early-season struggles were influenced by heavy minutes, lineup changes, and injuries, including Moses Moody’s absence and Curry’s minor illness. “Things have been a little clunky, but I believe in these guys. Tonight was a good step in getting back to who we are,” Kerr said.
The coach confirmed the starting lineup will remain for Friday’s matchup while remaining open to adjustments. “I’d like to start this way on Friday and we’ll see how it goes. Nothing is set in stone,” Kerr said.
Golden State improved to 7-6, splitting the first two games of their six-game road trip, while San Antonio fell to 8-3 after losing its first home game of the season. The Warriors will look to maintain their momentum in the next contest.
