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The Golden State Warriors demonstrated their title credentials with an impressive fourth quarter turnaround in pre-season.
After beating the LA Lakers 111-103, they followed it up with another victory, defeating the Portland Trail Blazers 129-123.
The Warriors again used a new starting line-up, with key veterans Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler III, Draymond Green and Al Horford only playing in the first-half. Although they were 16 points behind at half-time, Curry reminded fans of his enduring quality with several impressive plays.
Butler III also contributed in the first half, scoring 12 points. Although there were encouraging signs from the veterans, it was the Warriors' performance in the final quarter that will have caught the attention of supporters.
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They went into the final quarter trailing by 21 points, but scored a huge 51 points to complete a hugely impressive comeback. Quinten Post was the hero for the Warriors, finishing with 20 points.
Speaking after the game, the 25-year-old praised the team's defensive effort in the final quarter.
Post said: "The Trailblazers came out playing very aggressive. They played a really good game. We were down 20 (points) in the fourth (quarter), and I thought that last group, we really picked it up defensively.
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"We put pressure on the ball, and knocking down some shots helps, it was good to win the game, but definitely a lot to work on for us.
"Kind of a weird game, but we'll take it."
One player still yet to debut for the Warriors is Seth Curry, Steph's younger brother.
This is the first time that the duo have been on the same team, but they are yet to take to the court together.
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Seth signed an Exhibit 9 deal with Golden State, allowing him to participate in training camp and preseason.
While he is not guaranteed to be part of the regular season squad, Curry is expected to sign a one-year deal with the Warriors.
Despite question marks over the team's age, the pre-season performances will provide hope to supporters.
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Many commentators believe that the core of the Warriors team is now too old to be serious challengers.
But with players like Curry and impressive preseason comebacks, fans will be starting to raise their expectations.
They get their NBA season underway on October 21 when they travel to Los Angeles to face the Lakers.
With flashes of brilliance from their key players, they will be hoping to carry that momentum into the opening night.
Topics: Basketball, NBA
James Taylor