The Golden State Warriors’ gripping 118-114 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday night had an unexpected twist courtesy of Blazers coach Chauncey Billups in the game’s final moments at Moda Center.
As the clock ticked down with a razor-thin 115-114 lead for the Warriors and Steph Curry at the free-throw line with six seconds remaining, the anticipated outcome took a surprising turn. Curry, known for his near-perfect free-throw record, missed his second shot, leading to Portland’s Deandre Ayton securing the rebound.
Rather than calling a timeout to strategize, Billups made an unconventional move. He allowed Shaedon Sharpe to initiate a fast break instead of halting the play, leading to an offensive foul by Sharpe after Warriors’ rookie Brandin Podziemski drew a charge.
Addressing his decision post-game, Chauncey Billups delved into the rapid development of the play following Ayton’s rebound, citing his preconceived plan to call a timeout upon securing the rebound.
“We got it out quick and once he passed it, we started attacking. Didn’t really want to call timeout at that point; you got him attacking, you just got to take it out there,” Billups explained, detailing his thought process. He expressed comfort with letting the play unfold and only intending to call a timeout if Sharpe had ceased attacking.
Podziemski’s successful charge ultimately secured the win for the Warriors in a nail-biting finish.
The Warriors’ clutch performance marked their second consecutive victory. Their momentum continues with a three-game homestand at Chase Center, starting with a matchup against the Boston Celtics on Tuesday night
Comments