The Golden State Warriors secured a 104-93 victory against the Milwaukee Bucks, showcasing depth and resilience in the absence of star player Stephen Curry.

Warriors Secure Victory Without Curry

The Golden State Warriors demonstrated their depth and resilience by defeating the Milwaukee Bucks 104-93 at the Chase Center on March 18, 2025. This win was particularly significant as it came without the presence of their star player, Stephen Curry, who was given the night off for a mental and emotional break by head coach Steve Kerr.

Standout Performances

In Curry's absence, Jimmy Butler III stepped up impressively, recording 24 points, eight rebounds, and 10 assists. His leadership on the court was instrumental in guiding the team to victory. Brandin Podziemski, filling in for Curry, contributed 17 points and seven rebounds, showcasing his readiness to perform under pressure.

Off the bench, Buddy Hield added 15 points and six rebounds, providing the Warriors with the necessary spark to maintain their competitive edge throughout the game.

Defensive Prowess

Draymond Green's defensive efforts were pivotal in the Warriors' success. He effectively contained Giannis Antetokounmpo, holding him to 5-of-16 shooting—the Bucks star's worst shooting game in the past two seasons. Green's performance bolstered his case for a second Defensive Player of the Year award.

Bucks' Struggles

The Milwaukee Bucks faced challenges in this matchup. Kyle Kuzma led the team with 22 points, but key players Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard struggled with scoring efficiency. Antetokounmpo managed 20 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists but was limited by the Warriors' staunch defense. Lillard contributed 16 points but couldn't find his rhythm against Golden State's defensive schemes.

Game Flow

The Warriors established an early lead, outscoring the Bucks 32-27 in the first quarter. They maintained this momentum into halftime, leading 58-44. The Bucks attempted a comeback in the third quarter, narrowing the gap by outscoring the Warriors 32-20. However, Golden State regained control in the fourth quarter, sealing the game with a 26-17 run.

Implications for the Season

This victory improved the Warriors' record to 40-29, solidifying their position in the Western Conference standings. The team's ability to perform without Curry highlights their depth and readiness for the upcoming challenges in the season. The Bucks, now at 38-30, will need to reassess and strategize to maintain their competitiveness in the Eastern Conference.

Looking Ahead

The Warriors will conclude their seven-game homestand against the Toronto Raptors on Thursday night, aiming to continue their winning momentum. The Bucks are set to face the Los Angeles Lakers next, embarking on a series of games against Western Conference contenders, including the Kings, Suns, and Nuggets.

This game underscored the Warriors' resilience and adaptability, showcasing their capacity to overcome adversity and secure crucial victories as the season progresses.