The Warriors lost Game 1 against the Sacramento Kings in the first round of the Western Conference playoffs, but they remained optimistic.
Stephen Curry acknowledged that the first game is typically a "feeling out process" in the playoffs, and emphasized the importance of players making plays.
Although the Warriors have more playoff experience, having gone to six of the last eight NBA Finals, the Kings were able to secure a win, playing in their first playoff series in nearly two decades.
The Kings' home crowd played a significant role in the win, with their thundersticks and cowbells creating an energetic atmosphere.
The Warriors initially silenced the crowd, pulling ahead by 10 points twice in the third quarter. However, they lost their lead when Curry went to the bench for a rest, allowing the Kings to capitalize on his absence.
The Kings finished the third quarter with a 13-4 run, taking a one-point lead into the fourth quarter. Although Curry scored 13 of his team-high 30 points in the fourth quarter, he missed a game-tying three-pointer in the final seconds.
Coach Steve Kerr was content with the team's shot selection, but was concerned about the 17 offensive rebounds the Kings grabbed.
De'Aaron Fox and Malik Monk caused problems for the Warriors, especially in the second half. Fox scored 38 points and went 4-for-5 from deep, while Monk scored 32 points off the bench.
Trey Lyles contributed 16 points with a few timely three-pointers. Despite the loss, Curry was confident that the team could rebound and make the necessary adjustments to win Game 2.
The Warriors are down 1-0 in a playoff series for only the fourth time in their last 26 series, and Kerr is optimistic about the team's prospects in the seven-game series.