In a thrilling Game 3 of the NBA Playoffs on May 10, 2025, the Minnesota Timberwolves overcame the Golden State Warriors with a final score of 115-108, taking a commanding 2-1 lead in their playoff series. The victory was characterized by a remarkable performance from Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards, who scored a game-high 34 points, significantly contributing to his team’s second consecutive win since the injury to Warriors superstar Steph Curry.
The game opened with Minnesota establishing an early lead, highlighted by a quick succession of baskets from Edwards and Julius Randle. The Timberwolves, capitalizing on Golden State’s initial struggles from beyond the arc, jumped ahead 8-2, prompting a frustrated response from Warriors head coach Steve Kerr. Despite Golden State’s efforts to mount a comeback, including notable performances from Jimmy Butler and Jonathan Kuminga, the Warriors found themselves trailing for much of the first half.
Butler, who led the Warriors with 31 points, showcased his scoring ability, including timely three-pointers that kept his team within striking distance. However, Golden State’s offense struggled to find its rhythm, with several players underperforming, particularly in the shooting department. The Warriors’ shooting woes were evident as they failed to convert key opportunities, leading to a lack of offensive cohesion.
The Timberwolves maintained their momentum through the second and third quarters, with Randle and Edwards combining for crucial points. Edwards demonstrated impressive skill, executing a series of drives that not only resulted in points but also drew fouls from the Warriors’ defense. As the game progressed, Minnesota’s defense tightened, stifling Golden State’s attempts to penetrate the paint and forcing them into difficult outside shots.
In the third quarter, the Timberwolves began to extend their lead, capitalizing on a series of turnovers by the Warriors. Edwards, energized and aggressive, scored 18 points in the quarter alone, showcasing his potential as a dynamic scorer. The Timberwolves’ ability to share the ball and make extra passes significantly increased their three-point shooting accuracy, a crucial factor in their success during this game.
As the fourth quarter unfolded, the intensity heightened. Golden State attempted to rally, with Kuminga and Buddy Hield hitting critical shots to narrow the gap. However, the Timberwolves’ resilience proved too much, as they continued to respond with key baskets from Randle and Edwards. The game saw an array of lead changes, but Minnesota ultimately maintained control, aided by Edwards’ clutch scoring in the final minutes.
With less than two minutes remaining, the Timberwolves executed a series of plays that culminated in a powerful dunk by Rudy Gobert, further solidifying their lead. Despite a late push from Golden State, including a three-pointer from Kuminga, the Warriors could not overcome the deficit, sealing the win for Minnesota.
The Timberwolves will look to capitalize on this momentum as they prepare for Game 4, while the Warriors face critical adjustments following their second consecutive playoff loss without Curry. The series continues to unfold, with both teams eager to secure a spot in the next round of the playoffs.