Warriors’ Draymond Green Rises to the Occasion in Crucial Win

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. — Draymond Green showcased his championship mentality on Saturday night, helping the Golden State Warriors secure a 115-110 victory over the Detroit Pistons. With less than 40 seconds left on the clock and his team trailing by one point, Green calmly sank a 27-foot three-pointer, defying his recent shooting woes.

Throughout the 2025 season, Green has struggled with his shooting, managing only 23.3 percent from beyond the arc since December. However, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr acknowledged Green’s confidence, stating, “He did not hesitate. Just rose up, and that thing was pure.” The clutch shot underscored Green’s importance to the Warriors as they fight to maintain their place in the playoff standings.

“He’s a winner, you know what I mean?” Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff said. “So it’s not like you can disrespect him.” Green’s three-pointer was pivotal in ensuring the Warriors remained in the sixth playoff spot in the Western Conference, solidifying their momentum.

Green, 35, has carried the weight of Golden State’s success for over a decade, acting as the central figure during high-stakes moments. Despite a physical decline due to years of intensive play, his tenacity and readiness to step up when the need is greatest have defined his legacy. “You can’t manufacture clutch,” Green said. “It’s just who I am.”

As the season approaches its climax, the Warriors are benefitting from the arrival of Jimmy Butler, which has revitalized Green and his teammates’ fighting spirit. Green noted the adjustments he has made to continue his role effectively despite the physical demands. “I knew it would come down to this…but it’s a lot to anchor a defense,” he said, emphasizing the cumulative stress his body endures.

In recent games, including a tough matchup against the Pistons, Green has managed to average 10.8 points and a team-best 6.9 assists post-trade deadline. While his three-point shooting percentage has dropped to 21.9 percent since Butler’s arrival, the Warriors’ defensive and offensive ratings have drastically improved, suggesting the depth and adaptability of the team.

Despite his struggles, Green remains a focal point for the Warriors, and the team’s longevity depends on his ability to function at a high level. The Warriors’ current defensive rating ranks second in the NBA, highlighting Green’s crucial role in maintaining the intensity necessary for playoff success.

Reflecting on his career, Green expressed confidence in his ability to think strategically during games. “I feel very confident that most centers in the NBA, I can outthink,” he stated, showcasing his unique blend of skill, intelligence, and experience that has shaped the foundation of the Warriors’ gameplay.

As the playoffs loom, the Warriors will continue to rely on Green’s expertise and fortitude. His exquisite ability to perform under pressure remains one of the key components in securing further victories as they navigate the season’s challenging terrain.