48 points, a historic record, yet a defeat: Stephen Curry’s crazy night
Dec 14, 2025; Portland, Oregon, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) reacts after making a three-point shot against the Portland Trail Blazers during the second half at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Jaime Valdez-Imagn Images
Stephen Curry just delivered one of the most spectacular performances of his career, but it will remain tarnished by a frustrating defeat. Against the Portland Trail Blazers, the Golden State Warriors point guard scored 48 points on 16/26 shooting, including a phenomenal 12/19 from three-point range. An anthology-worthy performance that still wasn’t enough to avoid the 136-131 defeat.
This performance allows Curry to further cement his place in NBA history. With 45 games of 40+ points since turning 30, he now surpasses Michael Jordan to become the all-time leader in this category. The Chef also ties the NBA record with his fifth career game with 12 made three-pointers, matching all other players in history combined.
A spectacular offensive duel spoiled by a missed finish
Despite Curry’s offensive explosion, the Warriors ran into a red-hot duo of Shaedon Sharpe and Jerami Grant, each scoring 35 points with 12 combined three-pointers. Steve Kerr had opted for a traditional lineup with Quinten Post alongside Draymond Green in the paint, and Moses Moody paired with Jimmy Butler on the wings.
The game turned into a real three-point contest in the second half. Curry had given the Warriors a ten-point lead early in the fourth quarter (109-99), but Portland responded with a 12-0 run orchestrated by Jerami Grant. In crunch time, despite his exceptional shooting, Curry made two crucial mistakes: a missed three-pointer despite the double team, then a decisive turnover with 20 seconds remaining.
Stephen Curry records his 5th career game with 12 made threes, the most in NBA history. pic.twitter.com/TyWIMsyPzq
— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) December 15, 2025
Still glaring collective limitations for Golden State
The return of Draymond Green, particularly on edge with 8 turnovers and a technical foul, didn’t provide the expected balance. Portland relied on a reinforced frontcourt with the return of Donovan Clingan and Robert Williams III, who combined for 14 points, 21 rebounds and 6 assists.
This defeat perfectly illustrates the Warriors’ current difficulties: Curry finds himself isolated offensively too often, with no other player exceeding 17 points tonight. A situation that raises the question of a potential reinforcement to give the two-time MVP one last chance at a title.
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