Warriors Weather Storm to Hand Nets Seventh Straight Loss

The Warriors stole a game on Thursday night against a New Jersey team that was hungry for a win. They had lost six straight coming into Oracle Arena, but the Warriors were equally in need of a win after losing on their home court to the NBA's worst team in the Minnesota T'Wolves. The Warriors also came into the game with a sour taste in their mouth from the Dec. 22 loss in New Jersey, a game that was within reach, but lost by five points.

As the third quarter ended, it seemed the W's were doomed for two consecutive home losses. They turned the ball over on the final two possessions and allowed the Nets to capture momentum. There was a major lack of energy, indifferent attitude on defense, and hardly any rebounding effort. If it weren't for the efficient shooting and all around effort of Monta Ellis, the W's would have been left in the dust early in the second quarter. The Warriors could not seem to stop the dribble penetration of Vince Carter or Richard Jefferson. Jefferson had an impressive nine assists, many to Josh Boone. Boone was exposed for his 30% free throwing with more than nine minutes in the third quarter by a hack-a-Shaq strategy. It paid off for the most part in the sense that it rattled Boone, who was killing the W's with his rebounding and garbage points. Boone finished with 21 points and 17 boards.

By the forth quarter began, the fans in Club 200 grew restless. It was now or never, and I thought, where has Al Harrington been all night? Well, he showed up being the recipient of drive and dish three point conversions. The W's hit their first five three point attempts and successfully roused the excitement of the Oracle fans. The Nets countered with a run of their own, but the Warriors held on in the last minute with the assistance of the fans.

This victory was a rejuvenating boost for their morale, evening things up with the Nets and putting the Minnesota loss in the past. On Sunday, the W's take on the Knicks in a game where they are the favorite. It is a game that should be won as they play the Rockets and the Hornets on the road. This W's will need play with more urgency and activity on defense if they hope to have success against the tough Western Conference. Credit the W's for their resilience, Monte for his keeping them in the game, and the forth quarter efforts of Harrington and Davis. Baron had his 12th career triple double scoring 25, grabbing 12 boards, and dishing out 10 assists.