Warriors, Kings Engage in Hilarious Barking Match During Wild Game

Rookie center Dylan Cardwell's canine-like sounds spark an unusual back-and-forth between the two teams.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 6:22am

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An abstract, expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors, capturing the raw energy and intensity of a basketball game, with players' faces and movements blurred into dynamic, unrecognizable shapes.The barking match between Kings rookie Dylan Cardwell and the Warriors bench exemplifies the fiery competitiveness and unpredictable drama that can unfold during an NBA game.Today in Sacramento

In a wild sequence during the Kings' 124-118 win over the Warriors, Sacramento rookie center Dylan Cardwell was spotted barking at Golden State's bench after being tied up with veteran guard De'Anthony Melton. The Golden 1 Center crowd loved Cardwell's energy, but the Warriors appeared dumbfounded and ended up barking back at him, leading to an unusual back-and-forth between the two teams. The game also featured a Flagrant 1 foul, a minor scuffle, and an ejection, making it an eventful matchup between the Northern California rivals.

Why it matters

The barking match between Cardwell and the Warriors highlights the intense rivalry and competitive spirit between the two teams, which are both vying for playoff positioning in the Western Conference. The incident also showcases the unpredictable nature of NBA games, where tensions can flare up in unexpected ways, providing entertainment for fans.

The details

With 4:39 remaining in the third quarter, Cardwell was tied up with Melton, resulting in a jump ball. Cardwell then started barking at the Warriors' bench, much to the delight of the Sacramento crowd. The Warriors, however, were not amused and ended up barking back at Cardwell. On the ensuing possession, Melton beat the taller Cardwell for the jump ball, and Warriors center Al Horford drained a key 3-pointer to swing the momentum.

  • The barking match occurred with 4:39 remaining in the third quarter of the April 11, 2026 game.
  • The Warriors and Kings met for the final time in the 2025-26 NBA season on April 11, 2026.

The players

Dylan Cardwell

A 24-year-old rookie center for the Sacramento Kings who engaged in a barking match with the Warriors' bench.

De'Anthony Melton

A veteran guard for the Golden State Warriors who was involved in the jump ball sequence with Cardwell.

Al Horford

A veteran center for the Golden State Warriors who hit a key 3-pointer after winning the jump ball against Cardwell.

Gary Payton II

A Warriors player who was ejected from the game.

Brandin Podziemski

A Kings player who scored a career-high 30 points in the game.

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What’s next

The Kings and Warriors will not meet again this season, but their rivalry is sure to continue as they compete for playoff positioning in the Western Conference.

The takeaway

The barking match between Cardwell and the Warriors showcased the intense competitiveness and unpredictable nature of NBA games, providing entertainment for fans and highlighting the ongoing rivalry between these two Northern California teams.