Gui Santos’ Game-Winner Lifts Warriors Amidst Injury Struggles
It’s safe to say the Golden State Warriors have faced a challenging season. From significant injuries like Jimmy Butler’s ACL tear and Stephen Curry’s knee issues, to navigating the complexities surrounding Jonathan Kuminga, the team has consistently overcome adversity. So, when the final buzzer sounded on a hard-fought 114-113 Warriors’ victory over the Memphis Grizzlies, head coach Steve Kerr expressed palpable relief, especially considering the team’s depleted roster.
The Warriors have endured numerous heartbreaking losses decided by the narrowest of margins. The 99-98 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on December 5th and the 103-102 defeat to the Los Angeles Clippers in early January are prime examples of games slipping through their fingers in crucial moments. However, on Monday night, they were determined to reverse that trend, and they did so in dramatic fashion, mounting a remarkable comeback from an 11-point deficit (113-103) in the final 4:17. The game culminated in a game-winning layup by rookie Gui Santos after a frantic scramble for possession.
GUI SANTOS WINS IT😤 pic.twitter.com/3EIgUplzKI
— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) February 10, 2026
“We were probably due for one of those,” a visibly relieved Kerr said after the match. “You know, it seems like we’ve lost four or five of those this year, and I’m not sure we really deserved it, but we’ll take it.”
The victory mirrored their recent comeback win at Phoenix, where they overcame a 14-point fourth-quarter deficit to stun the Suns. Kerr emphasized the team’s resilience when the game was on the line. “We were kind of begging for some emotion the first three quarters. You know, we just were dead in the water, and there was no fire, no energy. And you know, the coaches were trying to get everybody going, and sometimes it just takes a spark. And I thought Al was great,” Kerr said, praising veteran big man Al Horford, who contributed 16 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 assists.
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According to Horford, the team was acutely aware of the challenges posed by the absence of Curry and Butler. Curry, the team’s leading scorer, averages 27.2 points per game. However, the 19-year NBA veteran stated they had to step up and find a way to secure the win. “Just trying to compete out here and trying to find a way. Obviously, without Steph is tough, and you know, just trying to do my part,” Horford said shortly after the final buzzer.
Reflecting on the game’s final moments, Horford remained composed, taking his time to assess the court before making his move and ultimately finding Santos for the game-winning basket. “I’ve been in those positions before. Just taking my time, and Gui did a great job just really calling for the ball and making himself available, and he made a really tough play there,” Horford shared.
The Warriors have one game remaining before the All-Star break, during which they will welcome back Stephen Curry and All-Star big man Kristaps Porzingis, acquired at the trade deadline. Whether this resilient team can maintain its momentum and make a playoff push remains to be seen.
This story was originally published by Basketball Network on Feb 10, 2026, where it first appeared in the Latest News section.
