NBA: Golden State Warriors Dominate Orlando Magic 120-97 – Stephen
Published: December 23, 2025
In a thrilling NBA matchup at Chase Center, the Golden State Warriors delivered a strong second-half performance to defeat the Orlando Magic 120-97 on December 22, 2025. Stephen Curry led the charge with a game-high 26 points, exploding for 18 in the second half, while Jimmy Butler contributed 21 points in an efficient display.
The win improves the Warriors’ record and marks back-to-back victories, showcasing their resilience and depth despite ongoing challenges.
Warriors vs Magic Final Score & Key Highlights
- Final Score: Golden State Warriors 120 – Orlando Magic 97
- Game Date: December 22, 2025
- Venue: Chase Center, San Francisco
- Top Performers:
- Warriors: Stephen Curry (26 points, 6 assists, 4 threes), Jimmy Butler (21 points), Moses Moody (20 points), Brandin Podziemski (16 points, 5 assists off the bench)
- Magic: Paolo Banchero (21 points, 12 rebounds), Desmond Bane (20 points)
The Warriors outscored the Magic 62-40 in the second half, turning a tight halftime score into a blowout with stifling defense and hot shooting.
Draymond Green Drama: Early Exit After Heated Exchange with Coach Steve Kerr
Draymond Green, fresh off an ejection in the previous game against the Suns, played limited minutes before heading to the locker room in the third quarter and not returning. Reports highlight a heated sideline argument with head coach Steve Kerr during a timeout.
Green later described it as an emotional exchange common in long-term relationships, while Kerr emphasized the need for Green on the court. Despite the incident, the Warriors’ defense held strong, and the team rallied for the convincing win.
Game Breakdown
- First Half: Closely contested, with the Warriors holding a slim 58-57 lead at the break.
- Second Half Dominance: Curry caught fire, hitting key threes, while the bench, led by Podziemski, provided energy. Golden State’s run extended the lead to 23 points.
- Key Moment: Curry’s first three in the third quarter sparked a surge that the Magic couldn’t counter.
Starting Lineups:
- Warriors: Stephen Curry, Moses Moody, Jimmy Butler, Draymond Green, Quinten Post
- Magic: Paolo Banchero, Desmond Bane, and others in a shorthanded frontcourt.
Post-Game Insights & What’s Next
The victory highlights the Warriors’ potential when Curry and Butler click, with strong contributions from young players like Moody and Podziemski. For the Magic, playing on a back-to-back contributed to the second-half fade.
The Warriors aim to build momentum heading into their Christmas Day game against Dallas.
