NBA Cup 2025: Curry's 49-Point Performance Highlights Exciting Matchups

The third night of the 2025 NBA Cup showcased thrilling games across both the Eastern and Western Conferences as group play approaches its midpoint. Among the standout performances was Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry, who delivered an impressive 49-point game against the San Antonio Spurs. He achieved this feat with a shooting percentage of 61.5%, making 16 of his 26 attempts. This performance also marked Curry's 44th career game scoring 40 or more points after the age of 30, tying him with basketball legend Michael Jordan for the record.

Despite Curry's offensive explosion, the Warriors faced significant pressure as the Spurs held a 10-point lead late in the fourth quarter. However, a missed opportunity by De'Aaron Fox for San Antonio allowed Golden State to secure the victory. This result leaves every team in Group C of the Western Conference with a record of 1-1, contributing to the unpredictable nature of this year's group play.

In another gripping matchup, the Los Angeles Clippers triumphed over the Dallas Mavericks in a double-overtime thriller. James Harden led the Clippers with a remarkable 41-point triple-double. Although Los Angeles initially held a 13-point advantage in the fourth quarter, the Mavericks mounted a comeback that forced the game into overtime. Controversy arose when a goaltending call against Mavericks player Daniel Gafford was overturned upon review, affirming a spectacular block, which extended the game. Ultimately, the Clippers' second overtime period saw them pull ahead, securing the win.

The Milwaukee Bucks also faced a challenging game against the Charlotte Hornets, resulting in an overtime victory. Eight different Bucks players scored in double figures, countering strong performances from Hornets' Miles Bridges and rookie Kon Kneuppel, both of whom scored 32 points. Kneuppel's crucial three-pointer tied the game and forced overtime, but the Bucks managed to maintain their composure, ultimately emerging victorious. This triumph signifies the Bucks' continued dominance in the NBA Cup, as they remain undefeated in group play throughout the tournament's three-year history.

In terms of regulation matchups, the Detroit Pistons achieved their ninth consecutive win with a 114-105 victory against the Philadelphia 76ers, even in the absence of several key players due to injuries. With Cade Cunningham, Tobias Harris, Ausar Thompson, and Jalen Duren sidelined, Javonte Green stepped up with a team-high of 21 points, supported by Daniss Jenkins' 19 points and eight assists.

Another high-scoring affair unfolded between the Miami Heat and New York Knicks, with the Knicks prevailing 140-132. Karl-Anthony Towns emerged as a pivotal player for New York, scoring 39 points, while Landry Shamet added 36 points off the bench. Despite a stellar performance from Miami's Norman Powell, who scored 38 points, the Knicks ultimately pulled ahead in the closing moments of the game.

In the Eastern Conference, the standings are as follows:

• Group A: Toronto Raptors (2-0, +23), Cleveland Cavaliers (1-1, +23), Atlanta Hawks (1-1, +8), Indiana Pacers (0-1, -20), Washington Wizards (0-1, -34)
• Group B: Detroit Pistons (2-0, +27), Orlando Magic (2-0, +20), Boston Celtics (1-1, -12), Philadelphia 76ers (0-2, -10), Brooklyn Nets (0-2, -25)
• Group C: Milwaukee Bucks (2-0, +16), Chicago Bulls (1-1, -6), New York Knicks (1-1, -2), Miami Heat (1-1, +10), Charlotte Hornets (0-2, -18)

In the Western Conference, the teams are positioned as follows:

• Group A: Minnesota Timberwolves (2-0, +54), Oklahoma City Thunder (1-0, +31), Phoenix Suns (1-0, +22), Sacramento Kings (0-2, -45), Utah Jazz (0-2, -62)
• Group B: Los Angeles Lakers (2-0, +19), Los Angeles Clippers (2-0, +2), Memphis Grizzlies (1-1, +9), New Orleans Pelicans (0-2, -14), Dallas Mavericks (0-2, -16)
• Group C: Denver Nuggets (1-1, +23), Houston Rockets (1-1, +13), San Antonio Spurs (1-1, +10), Portland Trail Blazers (1-1, -22), Golden State Warriors (1-1, -24)