The Golden State Warriors secured their first victory of the 2026-27 NBA season after defeating the Denver Nuggets 134-114 at Ball Arena on Monday, October 26, in a performance highlighted by Stephen Curry’s outstanding shooting and an impressive display from rookie Yaxel Lendeborg.
Golden State entered the contest searching for a response after losing its opening three games. The Nuggets, meanwhile, were looking to build on their previous comeback victory over the New Orleans Pelicans.
The Warriors eventually took control through a dominant third quarter, turning a closely contested first half into a convincing 20-point victory.
Curry Delivers Perfect Shooting Performance.
Curry finished with 24 points, making all eight of his field-goal attempts, including three three-pointers, and converting all five of his free throws.
The Warriors guard found his rhythm after a relatively quiet first half, scoring 17 points in the third quarter alone as Golden State pulled away from Denver.
His efficient performance provided the spark the Warriors needed to end their losing start to the campaign. Curry’s ability to score from distance and create opportunities helped stretch the Nuggets’ defence and opened up space for his teammates.
Golden State’s offensive display also demonstrated the value of having experienced players lead the team during a difficult opening stretch of the season.
Rookie Lendeborg Makes His Mark.
Rookie Yaxel Lendeborg was another standout performer for Golden State, recording a career-high 31 points and 12 rebounds.
His contribution gave the Warriors another scoring option alongside Curry and helped maintain pressure on Denver throughout the contest.
Brandin Podziemski also played an important role, finishing with 18 points, while the Warriors received additional contributions from their supporting cast.
The balanced performance was particularly encouraging for Golden State after its opening losses, suggesting that the team could find more offensive depth as the season progresses.
Nuggets Struggle to Contain Golden State.
Denver made a strong start and led 32-28 after the first quarter. The Nuggets, however, were unable to maintain that advantage as Golden State responded in the second period to take a 60-56 lead into half-time.
The Warriors then produced a decisive third quarter, outscoring Denver 40-28 to establish a 100-84 advantage heading into the final period.
The Nuggets struggled to close the gap, with Aaron Gordon’s ejection after receiving two technical fouls adding to their difficulties late in the contest.
Nikola Jokić finished with 19 points and 11 assists, while Jamal Murray also scored 19 points. DeMar DeRozan led Denver with 21 points, but the home side could not match Golden State’s offensive efficiency.
The Warriors maintained their advantage throughout the fourth quarter to complete the 134-114 victory.
Warriors Gain Momentum After Difficult Start.
The win offered Golden State an important confidence boost after beginning the season with three consecutive defeats.
Curry’s shooting efficiency, Lendeborg’s emergence and the team’s improved third-quarter performance were among the major positives for the Warriors.
For Denver, the loss highlighted defensive issues that the team will need to address as it continues its early-season schedule.
Both teams will now turn their attention to their upcoming fixtures, with Golden State hoping to build a winning run and Denver seeking a quick response.
The result also reinforced the importance of strong third-quarter performances in the NBA, where a short scoring surge can change the direction of a game.
