Stephen Curry did not need a warm-up game. After missing two weeks with a quad injury, the Golden State Warriors superstar returned Friday night looking exactly like himself, only louder on the scoreboard. Chase Center buzzed with anticipation, and Curry wasted little time reminding everyone why his presence alone shifts the balance of an NBA game.
Golden State had shown signs of stability in recent outings, but Curry’s absence loomed large. Steve Kerr made it clear before tip-off that his point guard would face no minutes restriction, signaling full confidence in his health. The decision spoke volumes, and Curry answered it immediately with sharp movement, deep shooting range and constant pressure on Minnesota’s defense.
From the opening minutes, it was evident this would not be a quiet return. Curry played free, aggressive and confident, attacking space and pulling defenders far beyond the arc. The Warriors fed off his energy, but the night quickly became about more than momentum. History was close.
Thankful we got back in the game, took a lead for a certain point, but then you’re at the mercy of couple makes here, a couple misses here, challenge call and stuff like that… [We] gave ourselves a chance
A historic night for Steph Curry, even in defeat
Curry finished with39 points on 14-of-28 shooting, adding five rebounds, five assists and six three-pointers in just 32 minutes. According to the NBA’s official announcement on X, it was his 94th career game with at least 35 points since turning 30. That number pushed him past Michael Jordan, who held the previous record at 93.
The milestone matters. Jordan remains the measuring stick for greatness, and surpassing him in any category carries weight. As documented by Basketball Reference and NBA.com, Curry has extended his scoring peak deeper into his 30s than nearly any perimeter star in league history. ESPN analysts have consistently pointed to his efficiency and off-ball impact as key reasons his production has aged so well.
Still, the celebration came with frustration. The Warriors fell 127-120 to a Minnesota Timberwolves team missing Anthony Edwards, snapping Golden State’s three-game winning streak. Curry acknowledged after the game that missed possessions, late-game execution and close calls swung the outcome.
At 13-13, the Warriors remain a work in progress. But Curry’s return made one thing clear without needing to say it out loud. His game has not slowed, his influence has not faded, and his name continues to rise through NBA history. The next stop is Portland, and Golden State will hope the wins soon follow the records.
