The Golden State Warriors suffered a heartbreaking 98-99 loss to the Phoenix Suns in a nail-biting match on December 18, 2025. The game, played at the Mortgage Matchup Center, saw the Warriors blow a 14-point lead in the third quarter, ultimately succumbing to a late free throw by Jordan Goodwin.
The Golden State Warriors started strongly, building a 62-48 lead early in the third quarter. However, the Phoenix Suns staged a remarkable comeback, tying the game at 66 shortly after on a Devin Booker three-pointer. The Suns' resilient effort culminated in a thrilling finish, highlighting their tenacity and strategic play.
The loss comes amid a challenging stretch for the Warriors, who have been grappling with a series of setbacks. Despite the valiant efforts of Jimmy Butler, who scored 31 points, and Brandin Podziemski, who contributed 18 points off the bench, the Warriors couldn't hold onto their lead. This loss adds to their recent struggles, including defeats to the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Portland Trail Blazers, despite stellar performances from Stephen Curry.
One of the key factors in the Warriors' defeat was their high turnover rate, totaling 20 for the game. This, combined with a late-game free-throw by Goodwin, sealed their fate. The Suns' ability to capitalize on the Warriors' mistakes and maintain their composure under pressure proved decisive in the final moments.
The game's intense atmosphere was amplified by the sellout crowd of 17,071, who witnessed a dramatic finish. The Suns' victory was a testament to their resilience and strategic play, proving they are a force to be reckoned with in the current NBA season.
