Warriors’ Defense Too Much for Knicks

“We’re a no-excuse basketball team…” –Mark Jackson, HC of GSW

Justin Libaste-BASD
12.28.2011

OAKLAND, Calif. – The Defense of the Golden State Warriors was overwhelming for the Knicks to say the least, as the Warriors get a convincing win 92-78. Monta Ellis scored 22 points, although he struggled going 4-15 from the field in the first half, adding to team leading 8 assists in the game.

Ellis scored 12 of his 22 points in the fourth quarter.

With the loss of Stephen Curry, due to injury, someone had to step up. With the addition of Ish Smith, it gives the Warriors the depth they need at point guard. Instead, it was Brandon Rush from the bench who stepped up for the Warriors contributing 19 points and 6 rebounds in 26 minutes.

The word that stood out throughout the night was DEFENSE. Yes, Defense. It was the defense that gave the Warriors the chance to win the game. It’s been quite some time since that was said in the Bay.

You heard it right; the Warriors limited the Knicks’ two superstars, F Carmelo Anthony & PF/C Amare Stoudemire. Anthony scored only 13 points and shot 3-13 from the field.

On the other hand, Stoudemire also struggled as he went 5-14 from the field tallying up 16 points in addition to his 10 rebounds.

According to Mark Jackson, Head Coach of GSW, he clearly stated during the press conference, ”We are a DEFENSIVE team…It’s shocking!”

The Warriors’ defense helped in the final period as they outscored New York 28-14.

The Warriors get back in action on Saturday, December 31, 2011 for the last game of the year of 2011 against the Philadelphia 76ers in Oracle Arena.

Tip-off is scheduled at 6:00p.m. GST.

Game Notes: Stephen Curry is listed day-to-day after a injuring the right ankle in the fourth quarter of Golden State’s game versus Chicago.