Warriors' Steve Kerr Makes Bold 'Champions' Statement After Win

Kerr's postgame comments captured the Warriors' mindset after a comeback victory that kept their season alive.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 1:20pm

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A cubist-style painting featuring sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in vibrant colors that convey the energy and drama of a high-stakes basketball game between the Golden State Warriors and Los Angeles Clippers.A fractured, geometric illustration captures the raw intensity and championship spirit of the Warriors' comeback victory over the Clippers, keeping their season alive.Los Angeles Today

The Golden State Warriors erased a 13-point fourth-quarter deficit to beat the Los Angeles Clippers 126-121 on Wednesday night, keeping their season alive. After the game, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr made a bold statement, declaring 'For one night, we're us. We're champions again.' Stephen Curry, who finished with 35 points and seven 3-pointers, explained his motivation to return from a 27-game absence to be part of this moment. Teammates Kristaps Porzingis and Al Horford praised Curry's unique talent and clutch performance. The game also featured a notable defensive battle between Draymond Green and Kawhi Leonard, with Green's lockdown defense drawing high praise from Leonard and Kerr.

Why it matters

The Warriors' season has been compromised by injuries and roster changes, but this win kept their playoff hopes alive and showed the team still has the championship pedigree that has defined their dynasty. Kerr's bold declaration and the players' comments highlighted the Warriors' championship mentality and desire to prove they can still compete at the highest level, even as doubters have written them off.

The details

In the fourth quarter, the Warriors erased a 13-point deficit to beat the Clippers 126-121. Stephen Curry scored 35 points and hit 7 3-pointers, including the go-ahead shot in the final minute. Kristaps Porzingis added 20 points in his best performance as a Warrior. Draymond Green played lockdown defense on Kawhi Leonard, holding him to just 2 points in the fourth quarter and forcing several key turnovers.

  • The game was played on Wednesday, April 16, 2026.
  • The Warriors will face the Phoenix Suns on Friday, with a first-round series against the Oklahoma City Thunder on the line.

The players

Steve Kerr

The head coach of the Golden State Warriors, known for his championship pedigree and bold leadership.

Stephen Curry

The star point guard of the Golden State Warriors, a 4-time NBA champion and one of the most clutch players in the league.

Kristaps Porzingis

A forward for the Golden State Warriors, who delivered a 20-point performance in the win over the Clippers.

Draymond Green

The versatile and defensive-minded forward for the Golden State Warriors, known for his intensity and leadership.

Kawhi Leonard

The star forward for the Los Angeles Clippers, a 2-time NBA champion and former Defensive Player of the Year.

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What they’re saying

“For one night, we're us. We're champions again. I know that that may sound crazy to everybody out there. It's a Play-In game. I don't care.”

— Steve Kerr, Head Coach, Golden State Warriors

“We talked about it the whole time. Just if we have any type of chance or hope to extend our season, I want to be out there to experience it.”

— Stephen Curry, Point Guard, Golden State Warriors

“He's unreal. I'm happy I'm on his side now because I used to be on the other side. There's not much you can do when he gets going. It's truly unique. One of the most special players we've ever seen.”

— Kristaps Porzingis, Forward, Golden State Warriors

“That was great. You don't like being on the other side when he does what he does. Just as clutch of a player as you can find. I catch myself just watching him when I'm out there because it still impresses me.”

— Al Horford, Forward, Golden State Warriors

“Hall of Fame defender. It was hard to even get shots up.”

— Kawhi Leonard

What’s next

The Warriors will face the Phoenix Suns on Friday, with a first-round series against the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder on the line.

The takeaway

This win showed the Warriors still have the championship pedigree and mentality that has defined their dynasty, even as doubters have written them off this season. Kerr's bold declaration and the players' comments highlighted their desire to prove they can still compete at the highest level, setting the stage for a potentially deep playoff run.