The Golden State Warriors needed everyone to step up on Monday against the Memphis Grizzlies. Fortunately for the Warriors, the players received the message, and almost everyone did their part. Especially NBA veteran big man Al Horford, who played big off the bench.
Horford had 16 points, nine rebounds and six assists in the 114-113 win. It was important for the Warriors players to carry their own because star guard Stephen Curry missed his fourth straight game due to a runner’s knee. Pat Spencer led the team in scoring with 17 points, seven assists and two steals on 61.5% shooting.
Late in the game, Horford made big plays with an offensive rebound and an assist to seal the victory.
Mandatory Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images
After the game, coach Steve Kerr had high praise for the one-time champion. Kerr credited Al Horford’s strong play on both ends.
“He kind of took over that game. Lot of guys made big plays, but yeah, we were probably due for one of those. … I’m not sure we really deserved it, but we’ll take it,” the championship coach said.
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr said Al Horford “was incredible at both ends of the floor. He kind of took over that game. Lot of guys made big plays, but yeah, we were probably due for one of those. … I’m not sure we really deserved it, but we’ll take it.”
— Sam Gordon (@BySamGordon) February 10, 2026
“He’s a Hall-of-Fame player. Even though he’s 39, he keeps himself in great shape. His fundamentals are incredible. His footwork. His hands. Understanding pivots to get out of trouble.”
The Warriors coach added that the team is “lucky” to have him. Golden State improved to 29-25 in the season and will face the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday before the All-Star Weekend.
Al Horford credited the team’s defensive adjustment in the win
It was a close battle throughout the entire game, but Al Horford and the Warriors made adjustments to their defense late in the game. According to the five-time All-Star, the adjustment helped them dictate the pace of the game and seal the win.
“A lot of grit from our group,” Horford said. “We really had to lock in there. It seemed like all game, we were playing their style. Very fast-paced, there was a lot of going on. We kind of settled down, we got stops when we needed to at the end.”
In his first season with Golden State, Horford is gradually making an impact.
For the latest Basketball Content
Follow me on X at @BarbecueBro, and follow us at @HardwoodHeroics. You can also reach out to Reign Amurao via email at reignamuraonba@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest sports news, click here!
