Curry’s 31 Points Fuel Warriors’ Epic Comeback Over Jazz, 123-114

In a thrilling NBA showdown that unfolded at the Chase Center on January 3, 2026, the Golden State Warriors orchestrated a remarkable second-half surge to defeat the Utah Jazz 123-114. What began as a surprising display of dominance by the visiting Jazz quickly transformed into a testament to the Warriors’ resilience, fueled by a sensational performance from Stephen Curry and critical tactical adjustments from coach Steve Kerr. This victory not only solidified Golden State’s playoff aspirations but also delivered a powerful message about their championship pedigree, even in the face of adversity.

A Tale of Two Halves: Jazz’s Early Dominance Fades

The Utah Jazz arrived in San Francisco as underdogs, yet they played with the confidence of a seasoned contender from the opening tip. Displaying impressive offensive efficiency and defensive solidity, they controlled the tempo and dictated the flow of the game through the first half. By the end of the first quarter, the Jazz held a 29-25 lead, showcasing their ability to find scoring opportunities in the paint and capitalize on early lapses by Golden State. This strong start wasn’t a fluke; Utah maintained their composure, patiently executing on offense and making things difficult for the Warriors, stretching their lead to a surprising 65-58 advantage heading into halftime. Lauri Markkanen, Utah’s 7’1 star, was particularly effective, ultimately finishing the game with a formidable 35 points, a performance that kept the Jazz competitive for much of the contest. The visiting team’s disciplined defense and well-coordinated movements left the Warriors searching for answers, creating a palpable tension among the home crowd at the Chase Center, as reported by VAVEL‘s live commentary.

Green’s Early Exit and Curry’s Third-Quarter Inferno

The Warriors’ path to victory was complicated by an unexpected turn of events in the second quarter. Draymond Green, known for his fiery intensity and defensive prowess, was ejected from the game after receiving consecutive technical fouls while arguing with officials over an offensive three-second violation. Green had played only 12 minutes, contributing eight points on 3-for-4 shooting, before his premature departure. This pivotal moment could have easily derailed Golden State, forcing them to regroup without a key defensive anchor and playmaker. However, it seemed to galvanize the team, setting the stage for one of Stephen Curry’s signature performances.

As the second half commenced, the Warriors emerged with renewed vigor, determined to turn the tide. The third quarter became a masterclass in offensive brilliance, spearheaded by Curry. He more than doubled his first-half scoring output, unleashing a breathtaking 20 points in the frame, including four crucial three-pointers. With the score tied at 93, Curry delivered a moment of pure magic, launching a 33-foot bomb from just in front of the mid-court logo, igniting the crowd and giving Golden State a lead they would not relinquish. This ‘Curry flurry,’ as NBA.com aptly described it, marked his 45th career 20-point quarter, a testament to his unparalleled ability to take over games. The Warriors outscored the Jazz 42-31 in that decisive third quarter, transforming a seven-point deficit into a four-point lead (100-96) heading into the final period.

Warriors’ Defensive Shift and Offensive Surge Seals the Win

The Warriors’ comeback wasn’t solely a product of Curry’s individual brilliance; it was also a collective effort marked by significant tactical adjustments. After losing the points-in-the-paint battle by a staggering 20 points in the first half (38-18), Golden State tightened its interior defense, outscoring Utah 28-24 in the restricted area in the second half. Coach Steve Kerr’s timeout calls were instrumental in reorganizing the team, fine-tuning defensive details, and maintaining intensity at crucial moments. The Warriors increased their defensive pressure, improved ball movement, and found better offensive options, particularly from long range, where their shooting accuracy finally arrived, cutting the deficit and shifting momentum. The energy from the Chase Center crowd, often described as an imposing and favorable environment for the home team, played a significant role in boosting their performance.

Conversely, the Jazz, who had displayed such early promise, began to fade under the relentless pressure. Their offensive clarity diminished, defensive intensity dropped, and mistakes started to pile up. The visitors struggled to find their rhythm in the third quarter and appeared less decisive as the Warriors pushed the pace. By the final quarter, the game was effectively decided. Golden State consolidated its offensive power, executed efficiently in key moments, and created clear separation. Despite Utah’s early efforts, they had no real options down the stretch, allowing the Warriors to calmly manage the closing moments and secure a commanding 123-114 victory.

Playoff Aspirations vs. Search for Consistency

This matchup held considerable significance for both Western Conference teams. For the Golden State Warriors, currently sitting in eighth place with an 18-16 record, this win was crucial for consolidating their position in the Playoff spots. Despite concerns surrounding an ankle injury to Stephen Curry (though unofficial reports suggested it was not serious for this game), the team has shown collective growth and improved performance, winning four of their last five games. Their objective, as highlighted by VAVEL, is to maintain consistency, relying on ball movement, perimeter shooting, and the experience of their core players.

The Utah Jazz, on the other hand, are navigating an irregular season, ranking 12th in the West with a 12-21 record and only two victories in their last five outings. Their campaign has been marked by defensive lapses and a lack of continuity, forcing them to compete fiercely game by game to avoid falling further behind. For Will Hardy’s side, securing a road victory against a direct Western rival would have provided a significant emotional boost. However, their inability to sustain their early intensity against a veteran team like the Warriors underscores their ongoing search for stability and consistent performance.

The Warriors’ victory against the Jazz was more than just another win; it was a powerful narrative of leadership, adaptation, and collective grit. Overcoming an early deficit, a critical ejection, and a stellar individual performance from the opposition, Golden State demonstrated the intangible qualities that define a true contender. This game serves as a clear indicator that even when tested, the Warriors possess the strategic depth and star power to bend the narrative to their will, reaffirming their status as a force to be reckoned with in the Western Conference.