The Golden State Warriors secured a convincing victory against the Charlotte Hornets on January 18, 2026, despite a subdued performance from their star player, Stephen Curry. Curry, known for his exceptional shooting ability, faced a rigorous defensive strategy from the Hornets, who consistently assigned two defenders to restrict his movement throughout the game.
Curry managed to score only 14 points, shooting 2 of 7 from three-point range and 6 of 11 overall. Despite the challenges posed by the Hornets’ defense, he acknowledged mixed feelings about the intense focus on him during the match. In the post-game press conference, he stated, “There’s a part of you that fights it just because it’s not real basketball, but there’s also a part of it that’s flattering.”
The Hornets’ approach to defending Curry has drawn attention for its extremity. While many teams recognize the danger he poses, the extent to which Charlotte committed to closely marking him raised eyebrows. Curry noted the irony in the situation, saying, “It’s also funny at times just how egregious it is.” His comments reflect the unique pressures faced by elite players in the league, as they often attract double and triple coverage, impacting their individual scoring but also creating opportunities for teammates.
The Warriors capitalized on this attention, as other players stepped up to fill the scoring void. De’Anthony Melton led the charge from the bench with 24 points in just 21 minutes of play, while Draymond Green contributed 20 points, helping the Warriors clinch the win comfortably.
Looking ahead, the Warriors are set to face the Miami Heat next, with Curry and his teammates eager to build on their recent success. The dynamic of having opponents focus heavily on Curry offers a strategic advantage, allowing others to showcase their talents on the court.
As the season progresses, Curry’s ability to adapt to various defensive schemes will continue to be scrutinized, but his resilience and the depth of the Warriors’ roster provide them with a strong foundation for future games.