The Golden State Warriors achieved a decisive victory over the Charlotte Hornets on January 18, 2026, despite a challenging night for star player Stephen Curry. In a game where the Hornets employed intense defensive strategies, Curry found himself heavily marked, receiving little space to operate. He finished with only 14 points, a significant departure from his usual scoring output.
Curry, recognized as one of the greatest shooters in basketball history, is accustomed to facing tight defenses. Opponents often double or even triple-team him, knowing that leaving him open could lead to devastating scores. However, he expressed frustration with the Hornets’ approach during the post-match press conference, describing it as “not real basketball.”
“There’s a part of you that fights it just because it’s not real basketball,” Curry stated. “But there’s also a part of it that’s flattering.” His remarks highlight the duality of his situation: while the attention reflects his skills, it also complicates his game.
Despite the defensive focus on him, Curry acknowledged that this strategy can create opportunities for his teammates. He noted, “If they capitalize on that, it’s good news for the Warriors.” This was evident during the match, as players like De’Anthony Melton and Draymond Green stepped up. Melton scored 24 points in just 21 minutes, while Green added 20 points, contributing significantly to the team’s overall performance.
Curry’s shooting numbers were not impressive; he made only 2 of 7 attempts from beyond the arc and 6 of 11 overall. Nonetheless, the depth of the Warriors’ roster proved effective against Charlotte. The team’s ability to adapt and leverage the attention on Curry speaks to their championship potential.
Golden State will look to build on this momentum when they face the Miami Heat next. Curry’s ability to draw defenders remains a crucial element of the Warriors’ strategy, reinforcing his role as a focal point in their offensive play.
As the season progresses, fans will be keen to see how opposing teams adjust their tactics and how Curry continues to navigate the challenges presented by increased defensive scrutiny.
