Key Highlights
- Golden State Warriors’ 133-112 win over Memphis Grizzlies highlights team’s dominance in the first quarter.
- Malevy Leons, on a two-way contract, played impressively and made his fellow Dutchman proud.
- Warriors’ coach Steve Kerr praised Leons for his energy and contribution to the team’s success.
- Leons’ performance aligns with the Warriors’ recent efforts to return to their identity after tough losses.
The Fast Start That Changed Everything
And yet, you might think this is new. But it’s not always been like this for the Golden State Warriors. Last week, they were struggling against the New Orleans Pelicans, missing 17 shots in their first quarter.
Now, suddenly, they’re back on track.
It all started with a fast start, and that difference was felt immediately. The Warriors scored 34 points in the first quarter—more than they had managed against the Pelicans. They made five threes, and 10 of their 14 shots were assisted. That ball movement continued into the second quarter where they outscored the Grizzlies 40-22.
A Player Who Fits the Bill
Not always. But Malevy Leons fits that description perfectly for the Warriors. He’s on a two-way contract, and his performance in Memphis was nothing short of ‘awesome.’
Leons played 18 productive minutes in the game, scoring nine points while leading the team with five offensive rebounds.
His hustle brought him three more rebounds offensively. He even put back up a missed shot for two points, demonstrating his ability to read plays and make quick decisions.
The Dutch Connection
At least, that’s the plan. There are currently two Dutch players in the NBA: Leons and Quinten Post. They both play for the Warriors, making it a special moment for Dutch basketball history.
Post, the center, shared his excitement about playing alongside his friend from Amsterdam. “It’s really cool for Dutch basketball history for us to be on the court together,” he said. “I’ve known Mal since we were 13, something like that.”
The Coach’s Perspective
Was fun to watch him play.
Coach Steve Kerr was impressed with Leons’ all-around game, praising his energy and defensive contributions without fouling. “I thought Malevy was awesome,” he said. “Just the energy, defending without fouling, creating some problems for them at the defensive end of the floor and then making some nice plays on offense too.”
With Leons’ performance, the Warriors are showing signs of returning to their identity after a couple of tough losses. It’s a reminder that even in the most depleted lineups, there can be unexpected stars.
