The golden state warriors vs la clippers match player stats from the NBA Play In game on April 16, 2026, tell the story of a high pressure contest that featured elite shot making, experienced leadership, and a remarkable fourth quarter comeback. Golden State defeated the LA Clippers 126 to 121 at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, earning a valuable postseason victory after overcoming an early deficit. While the final score reflects a close game, the detailed statistics reveal how efficient shooting, timely three point baskets, and standout individual performances shaped the outcome.

This matchup attracted plenty of attention because both teams entered the Play In Tournament with everything at stake. Golden State finished the regular season with a 37 to 45 record, while the Clippers completed the year at 42 to 40. The records suggested a competitive contest, and the game certainly lived up to expectations. Stephen Curry once again proved why he remains one of the NBA’s most reliable stars, while several teammates provided important contributions that prevented the Clippers from securing a home victory.

Match Overview

Match Detail	Information
Competition	NBA Western Conference Play In
Date	April 16, 2026
Venue	Intuit Dome
City	Inglewood, California
Attendance	17,927
Final Score	Golden State Warriors 126, LA Clippers 121
Winning Team	Golden State Warriors
Broadcast	Prime Video

The atmosphere inside the Intuit Dome reflected the significance of postseason basketball. Every possession mattered, and both teams responded with aggressive offensive execution. Although the Clippers controlled portions of the first three quarters, Golden State delivered an exceptional final period by scoring 43 points, ultimately changing the direction of the game.

Golden State Warriors vs LA Clippers Match Player Stats Breakdown

Understanding the golden state warriors vs la clippers match player stats requires looking beyond the final score. Team efficiency, shooting percentages, rebounding, turnovers, and bench production all played meaningful roles throughout the contest.

Team Statistics Comparison

Team Statistics	Golden State Warriors	LA Clippers
Points	126	121
Field Goals	47 of 83
Field Goal Percentage	57%	52%
Three Pointers	19 of 41	14 of 35
Three Point Percentage	46%	40%
Free Throws	13 of 21	17 of 17
Free Throw Percentage	62%	100%
Total Rebounds	36	36
Offensive Rebounds	10	9
Defensive Rebounds	26	27
Assists	29	30
Turnovers	20	17
Steals	12	15
Blocks	3	3
Personal Fouls	19	23

At first glance, several numbers appear surprisingly balanced. Both teams collected exactly 36 rebounds and recorded three blocked shots. The Clippers also protected the basketball slightly better by committing fewer turnovers and finished a perfect 17 for 17 at the free throw line.

However, Golden State created separation in two crucial categories.

First, the Warriors shot an outstanding 57 percent from the field compared to the Clippers’ 52 percent. Second, they knocked down 19 three pointers compared to just 14 by Los Angeles. Those additional long range baskets ultimately outweighed the Clippers’ perfect free throw shooting.

Quarter by Quarter Analysis

First Quarter

Team	Points
Warriors	22
Clippers	31

The Clippers opened the game with greater energy and offensive rhythm. Their defensive pressure disrupted Golden State’s spacing, while efficient scoring helped build an early nine point advantage.

Golden State struggled to establish consistent offensive flow during the opening minutes, forcing difficult shots against an active Clippers defense.

Second Quarter

Team	Points
Warriors	31
Clippers	30

The Warriors responded with improved ball movement and more effective perimeter shooting. Stephen Curry began finding open looks, while Kristaps Porzingis added interior scoring to keep Golden State within striking distance.

Although Los Angeles continued scoring efficiently, they were unable to extend the lead before halftime.

Third Quarter

Team	Points
Warriors	30
Clippers	28

Neither team created significant separation after halftime.

The Warriors steadily reduced the deficit through patient offensive possessions and timely defensive stops. Gui Santos contributed several important baskets, while Brandin Podziemski controlled the pace with intelligent decision making.

By the end of the third quarter, momentum had clearly shifted toward Golden State.

Fourth Quarter

Team	Points
Warriors	43
Clippers	32

This quarter completely transformed the game.

Golden State produced one of its most explosive offensive stretches of the season, scoring 43 points during the final period. Crisp passing created open perimeter opportunities, Curry delivered several momentum changing shots, and veteran leadership helped maintain composure during every critical possession.

The Clippers continued scoring but simply could not match Golden State’s offensive efficiency during the closing minutes.

Stephen Curry Leads Another Big Stage Performance

Whenever postseason basketball arrives, expectations naturally rise for Stephen Curry.

He answered those expectations once again.

Stephen Curry Statistics

Category	Total
Points	35

Although the official box score data provided focuses primarily on scoring, Curry’s impact extended well beyond points.

His movement without the basketball forced defenders to constantly adjust their positioning. Every possession required additional defensive attention, creating driving lanes and open perimeter opportunities for teammates.

Several of Golden State’s late game scoring runs began because Curry attracted multiple defenders before quickly moving the basketball to an open teammate.

His 35 point performance demonstrated remarkable efficiency and leadership under playoff pressure.

Gui Santos Delivers His Best Offensive Performance

One of the biggest surprises came from Gui Santos.

Scoring 20 points in an elimination style game is an impressive achievement for any player, especially against a veteran defensive team like the Clippers.

His offensive production arrived at critical moments.

Instead of forcing difficult shots, Santos consistently made smart decisions by attacking open space and taking quality attempts within the flow of the offense.

His performance prevented Los Angeles from focusing exclusively on Curry.

Kristaps Porzingis Adds Size and Scoring

Kristaps Porzingis also finished with 20 points.

His ability to score inside and stretch opposing defenses provided valuable offensive balance.

Whenever the Clippers attempted to collapse into the paint against Curry, Porzingis punished those adjustments by creating scoring opportunities from multiple areas of the floor.

His presence also contributed to Golden State maintaining offensive spacing throughout the game.

Brandin Podziemski Continues His Development

Brandin Podziemski added 17 points while serving as an important secondary playmaker.

Rather than chasing individual statistics, he consistently made winning basketball decisions.

His contributions included:

• Smart shot selection
• Efficient ball movement
• Strong perimeter defense
• Effective transition play
• Reliable decision making under pressure

These qualities rarely receive as much attention as scoring totals, but they often determine postseason success.

Warriors Supporting Cast Makes the Difference

While Stephen Curry’s 35 points naturally attracted most of the attention, Golden State’s victory was built on contributions from multiple players. Championship level teams rarely depend on one scorer, and this game demonstrated that principle clearly.

Several Warriors stepped forward at important moments, making it difficult for the Clippers to concentrate all of their defensive resources on Curry.

Golden State Warriors Top Scorers

Player	Points
Stephen Curry	35
Gui Santos	20
Kristaps Porzingis	20
Brandin Podziemski	17
Al Horford	14

Together, these five players accounted for 106 of Golden State’s 126 points. That balanced offensive production allowed the Warriors to maintain consistent scoring throughout the game instead of relying on isolated possessions.

Al Horford Provides Veteran Stability

Al Horford finished with 14 points off the bench, and his impact extended beyond scoring.

Experienced veterans often influence games through positioning, communication, and decision making rather than explosive statistics. Horford consistently made the right basketball play by setting effective screens, moving the ball quickly, and helping organize the defense.

His calm presence became especially valuable during the fourth quarter when every possession carried extra importance.

Warriors Bench Contributions

Although several reserve players did not produce large scoring totals, the Warriors’ bench supplied valuable minutes.

Available bench players included:

• Al Horford
• Omer Yurtseven
• Gary Payton II
• De’Anthony Melton

Players listed as Coach’s Decision:

• Charles Bassey
• Seth Curry
• Pat Spencer
• Will Richard

The rotation reflected Golden State’s confidence in its experienced core while maintaining flexibility throughout the game.

Clippers Offensive Leaders

Despite the loss, the Clippers produced several impressive individual performances.

Their offense remained productive for most of the evening, finishing with 121 points while shooting 52 percent from the field.

LA Clippers Leading Scorers

Player	Points
Bennedict Mathurin	23
Kawhi Leonard	21
Darius Garland	21

These three players combined for 65 points and consistently challenged Golden State’s defense.

However, basketball is ultimately a team game, and even strong individual performances sometimes fall short when an opponent executes better during the closing minutes.

Bennedict Mathurin Sparks the Bench

Mathurin led the Clippers in scoring with 23 points despite beginning the game as a reserve.

His offensive aggression immediately energized Los Angeles.

He attacked the basket confidently, found scoring opportunities in transition, and helped maintain offensive momentum whenever the starters rested.

Bench scoring often determines close postseason games, and Mathurin certainly fulfilled that responsibility.

Unfortunately for the Clippers, Golden State’s balanced scoring proved slightly more effective over the full forty eight minutes.

Kawhi Leonard’s Steady Performance

Kawhi Leonard contributed 21 points while serving as one of the Clippers’ primary leaders.

Throughout the game, Leonard displayed the patience and composure expected from a veteran postseason performer.

His strengths included:

• Efficient mid range scoring
• Strong perimeter defense
• Smart shot selection
• Leadership during critical possessions

Although he produced another reliable performance, Golden State’s defensive adjustments in the fourth quarter limited several late opportunities.

Darius Garland Controls the Offense

Garland matched Leonard with 21 points while directing much of the Clippers’ offensive attack.

His quick decision making helped Los Angeles record 30 assists, one more than Golden State.

Garland consistently created quality looks for teammates while also contributing as a scorer whenever defensive pressure increased.

His ability to balance passing and scoring kept the Clippers competitive until the closing minutes.

Comparing the Starting Lineups

Golden State Warriors Starters

Player

Draymond Green

Gui Santos

Kristaps Porzingis

Stephen Curry

Brandin Podziemski

LA Clippers Starters

Player

Kawhi Leonard

Derrick Jones Jr.

Brook Lopez

Kris Dunn

Darius Garland

Each lineup featured a different identity.

Golden State relied heavily on spacing, perimeter shooting, and offensive movement.

The Clippers emphasized defensive versatility, physical interior play, and balanced offensive creation.

Both approaches proved effective for much of the contest, but Golden State’s superior outside shooting eventually became the deciding factor.

Why the Warriors Won

Looking deeper into the golden state warriors vs la clippers match player stats, several factors explain why Golden State secured the victory.

Elite Shooting Efficiency

Golden State converted 57 percent of its field goal attempts.

In playoff basketball, shooting above 55 percent typically places tremendous pressure on opposing defenses.

The Warriors consistently generated high quality shots instead of forcing contested attempts.

Three Point Accuracy

Perhaps the biggest statistical advantage came beyond the arc.

Golden State made:

• 19 three pointers
• 46 percent accuracy

The Clippers finished with:

• 14 three pointers
• 40 percent accuracy

Those additional five made three pointers created a 15 point difference from long range alone.

Considering the final margin was only five points, outside shooting clearly played a decisive role.

Fourth Quarter Execution

Scoring 43 points during the final quarter demonstrated outstanding offensive execution.

Rather than rushing possessions, Golden State remained patient.

Ball movement improved.

Shot selection improved.

Defensive communication improved.

These small adjustments gradually shifted momentum until the Warriors completed the comeback.

Areas Where the Clippers Excelled

Although they lost, several statistics favored Los Angeles.

Perfect Free Throw Shooting

The Clippers converted all 17 free throw attempts.

A perfect performance from the line is rarely achieved in postseason basketball.

Unfortunately, free throw efficiency alone could not overcome Golden State’s superior perimeter shooting.

Ball Security

Los Angeles committed only 17 turnovers compared with 20 by the Warriors.

Protecting possessions usually increases a team’s chances of winning.

However, Golden State offset those extra turnovers through exceptional shooting efficiency.

Defensive Activity

The Clippers recorded:

• 15 steals
• 3 blocks

Their aggressive perimeter defense disrupted Golden State for long stretches, particularly during the opening quarter.

Statistical Turning Points

Several numbers stand out when reviewing the complete game.

Warriors Advantages

• Higher field goal percentage
• Better three point shooting
• Five additional made three pointers
• Outstanding fourth quarter scoring

Clippers Advantages

• Perfect free throw shooting
• Fewer turnovers
• More steals
• Slightly more assists

This balance explains why the game remained competitive until the closing minutes.

Instead of one team dominating every category, each side excelled in different areas.

Golden State simply held the advantage in the categories that most directly influenced scoring efficiency.

Coaching Decisions

Another interesting aspect of this game involved player rotations.

Neither team relied heavily on deep bench units during the most important moments.

Golden State trusted experienced veterans alongside Curry, while the Clippers leaned on Leonard and Garland during crunch time.

Both coaching staffs shortened their rotations as expected in an elimination style environment.

Those decisions reflected confidence in proven players capable of handling postseason pressure.

Lessons From the Match

This contest highlighted several important truths about winning playoff basketball.

First, efficient shooting often outweighs raw possession totals.

Second, balanced scoring prevents defenses from focusing on a single star.

Third, experienced leadership remains invaluable during close games.

Finally, momentum can shift rapidly in the fourth quarter when teams execute consistently on both ends of the floor.

These lessons were visible throughout every stage of this matchup and help explain why Golden State emerged with a hard fought victory.

Advanced Analysis of the Match

The golden state warriors vs la clippers match player stats reveal far more than who scored the most points. They highlight how efficiency, teamwork, and execution under pressure often decide postseason basketball.

Golden State did not dominate every statistical category. In fact, the Clippers recorded more steals, one more assist, fewer turnovers, and a perfect performance from the free throw line. Those numbers normally place a team in a strong position to win.

The difference came from shot quality.

Throughout the game, Golden State consistently created cleaner scoring opportunities. Their offensive spacing forced defenders to make difficult decisions, allowing shooters to find open looks around the perimeter.

When a team shoots 57 percent from the field and 46 percent from three point range, every defensive mistake becomes costly.

Individual Performances That Shaped the Result

Stephen Curry

Curry once again demonstrated why he remains one of the league’s premier players during high pressure games.

His 35 points were impressive on their own, but his overall influence extended much further.

Several Warriors baskets came after Curry attracted multiple defenders before making the extra pass. Even on possessions where he did not score, his movement without the ball forced defensive adjustments that created opportunities for teammates.

This type of impact cannot always be measured through traditional statistics.

Gui Santos

Gui Santos produced one of the most important performances of the evening.

Scoring 20 points against an experienced playoff defense reflects confidence and smart decision making.

Rather than forcing difficult shots, Santos remained patient, taking advantage of open opportunities created through the Warriors’ offensive system.

His performance prevented the Clippers from placing all of their defensive attention on Curry.

Kristaps Porzingis

Porzingis added another 20 points while giving Golden State valuable size inside the paint.

His versatility allowed the Warriors to score from multiple areas of the floor.

Whether attacking near the basket or stretching the defense with perimeter shooting, he consistently created matchup problems.

Brandin Podziemski

Although his 17 points stand out, Podziemski’s composure deserves equal recognition.

Young players sometimes struggle under postseason pressure.

Instead, he displayed maturity by making smart passes, taking quality shots, and maintaining the offensive rhythm throughout the game.

Al Horford

Veteran leadership often becomes most valuable during close contests.

Horford’s 14 points, combined with his experience and defensive communication, helped stabilize Golden State during critical stretches.

His contribution reminds fans that leadership cannot always be measured through scoring alone.

Clippers Players Who Kept the Game Competitive

Despite the defeat, several Clippers delivered strong individual performances.

Bennedict Mathurin

Mathurin led his team with 23 points and supplied instant offense from the bench.

His aggressive approach helped maintain scoring momentum whenever the starting lineup rested.

Kawhi Leonard

Leonard finished with 21 points while continuing to play his usual disciplined style.

He made intelligent decisions, avoided unnecessary mistakes, and provided reliable scoring throughout the game.

Darius Garland

Garland also scored 21 points while directing much of the Clippers’ offense.

His playmaking helped Los Angeles record 30 assists, reflecting effective ball movement for much of the contest.

Biggest Statistical Takeaways

Several numbers immediately stand out when reviewing this game.

Golden State Warriors

• 126 total points

• 57 percent field goal shooting

• 46 percent from three point range

• 19 made three pointers

• 43 fourth quarter points

• Five players scored at least 14 points

LA Clippers

• 121 total points

• 52 percent field goal shooting

• 40 percent from three point range

• Perfect 17 for 17 free throw shooting

• 30 assists

• 15 steals

These statistics explain why the contest remained competitive from beginning to end.

Neither team played poorly.

Golden State simply executed more efficiently during the possessions that mattered most.

What Fans Can Learn From This Game

One lesson from this matchup is that balanced scoring often proves more valuable than relying on a single superstar.

Although Curry led all Warriors scorers, four teammates also reached double figures. That offensive balance made defensive adjustments extremely difficult for the Clippers.

Another important takeaway involves three point shooting.

Golden State made five more three pointers than Los Angeles.

Those additional baskets represented the exact type of advantage capable of deciding close postseason games.

Finally, the fourth quarter demonstrated the importance of maintaining composure.

Teams that remain patient under pressure usually create better scoring opportunities than teams that begin rushing possessions.

Golden State provided an excellent example of that principle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who scored the most points in this game?

Stephen Curry led the Warriors with 35 points, while Bennedict Mathurin led the Clippers with 23 points.

Who won the game?

Golden State defeated the LA Clippers 126 to 121 in the NBA Western Conference Play In game on April 16, 2026.

Where was the game played?

The game took place at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, in front of 17,927 spectators.

Which team shot better from three point range?

Golden State made 19 of 41 three point attempts for 46 percent, while the Clippers made 14 of 35 for 40 percent.

What was the biggest difference in the game?

Golden State’s outstanding fourth quarter, where they scored 43 points, proved to be the turning point.

Conclusion

The golden state warriors vs la clippers match player stats provide a complete picture of a highly competitive Play In matchup that rewarded efficient offense and disciplined execution. Golden State overcame an early deficit through exceptional shooting, balanced scoring, and an explosive final quarter. Stephen Curry once again led by example with 35 points, while Gui Santos, Kristaps Porzingis, Brandin Podziemski, and Al Horford supplied valuable support.

The Clippers also produced an impressive overall performance. Their perfect free throw shooting, strong defensive activity, and balanced scoring kept the contest close until the closing minutes. However, Golden State’s superior field goal efficiency and three point shooting ultimately proved decisive.

For basketball fans, this game serves as an excellent example of how postseason success depends on teamwork, smart shot selection, and executing consistently when the pressure reaches its highest level.