May 01, (THEWILL) – The Golden State Warriors have advanced to the second round of the NBA playoffs after defeating the Sacramento Kings 120-100 in Game 7.
The Warriors were led by a playoff career-high 50 points from Stephen Curry, who also set a new NBA record for most points scored in a Game 7. Kevon Looney was also instrumental in the victory, grabbing 21 rebounds for Golden State.
Despite the Warriors missing 19 free throws and Klay Thompson struggling with his shooting, the Kings were unable to capitalise and fell short in their efforts to extend the series. De’Aaron Fox had his worst game of the series with only 16 points, while Kevin Huerter continued to struggle.
Curry and Looney’s performances ultimately proved to be the difference, with Looney becoming the first player since Dwight Howard in 2008 to record three 20-plus rebound games in the same series. The Warriors will now face the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference semifinals.
The Kings may have had a successful season, but their failure to seize the moment in Game 7 will undoubtedly sting. Meanwhile, the Warriors are looking to extend their dynasty and will face another tough test against LeBron James and the Lakers.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.