The Golden State Warriors were able to keep their championship hopes alive with a win in Game 5 of the NBA Finals. Head coach Steve Kerr had a simple explanation.

The game certainly did not lack intrigue as it came down to the wire. Kerr credited Golden state's defense down the final stretch, via NBA TV:

“We got stops,” Kerr said. “Our defense was bending down the stretch but we didn't break. The last stop was tremndous, amazing defense on that last play from all five guys.”

Related NewsArticle continues below
Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) gets ready for the start of the game against the Golden State Warriors during game three of the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Chase Center.
Anthony Edwards reacts to Gary Payton Sonics jersey gift
Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (23) reacts after his sixth foul against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the fourth quarter during game three in the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Chase Center.
Warriors’ Draymond Green’s gambling comment about refs earns him hefty fine

There is certainly plenty of truth to what Steve Kerr said. The Warriors had squandered a double-digit lead in the second half to allow the Raptors a fighting chance in the fourth quarter. Both teams made crucial mistakes in the final few possessions. Fortunately, Golden State still found a way to secure a victory with a last stand on defense.

Steve Kerr knows his team managed to show some signs of life after allowing Toronto to take a commanding 3-1 series lead. Golden State was briefly able to welcome back forward Kevin Durant. Despite his hot start to the game, he was unable to finish after suffering an Achilles injury during the second quarter.

The Warriors were undoubtedly relying on his return to ignite a potential resurgence. Unfortunately, Kerr will now have to go back to the drawing board to figure out how to keep this series going. A good place to start will be making sure his team keeps that same intensity on defense.