Pelicans Edge Warriors 113-109 Behind Williamson’s 26 and Murray’s Emotional Return
The New Orleans Pelicans pulled off a gritty 113-109 victory over the injury-riddled Golden State Warriors on Tuesday night at Smoothie King Center, with Zion Williamson dropping 26 points and Dejounte Murray making a triumphant return after nearly 13 months on the sidelines.
Murray’s Comeback Steals the Spotlight
Murray, who ruptured his right Achilles tendon against Boston on January 31, 2025, played approximately 25 minutes in his first game back. The emotions were running high for the veteran guard, who received a standing ovation from the New Orleans faithful.
He finished with 13 points, three assists, and two rebounds, though he did struggle with five turnovers as he shook off the rust. Still, Murray delivered when it mattered most, hitting a clutch driving layup with 1:04 remaining to extend the Pelicans’ lead to 109-104.
Williamson Dominates in the Paint
Williamson was his usual self, attacking the rim with authority and making life miserable for the Warriors’ depleted frontcourt. He knocked down 11 of 21 shots from the field, grabbed six rebounds, and even drained his first three-pointer of the season—a moment that sent the home crowd into a frenzy.
Ten of his 26 points came in the crucial fourth quarter, helping the Pelicans hold off a persistent Warriors comeback attempt.
“Man, it’s good to have my guy back on the court, man, this my dawg right here,” Williamson said about Murray’s return.
Bey Provides Critical Support
Saddiq Bey chipped in 18 points for New Orleans, including a spectacular reverse layup that he spun off the glass while being fouled to give the Pelicans a 107-101 advantage with 1:47 left. Former Warriors guard Jordan Poole added 12 points against his old squad.
The victory marked the Pelicans’ second straight win and their fourth in six games, a sign of life for a team that’s struggled to find consistency this season at 17-42.
Warriors Fight Hard Despite Absences
Golden State showed heart despite missing several key players. Stephen Curry (right knee), Kristaps Porzingis (illness), and Al Horford (left toe) all sat out. Curry, who has now missed eight consecutive games, didn’t even make the trip to New Orleans, according to coach Steve Kerr.
De’Anthony Melton stepped up in a big way, pouring in a season-high 28 points, though he missed a crucial free throw with 1:23 left and his team trailing by just four. Moses Moody added 24 points for the Warriors, who dressed only nine players for the contest.
Brandin Podziemski contributed 16 points, and Gui Santos chipped in 15, but the Warriors’ shooting woes proved too much to overcome. They connected on just 24.4% of their three-point attempts (11 of 45), though they did manage to outrebound New Orleans 59-53 and score 58 points in the paint.
Looking Ahead
The Warriors (30-28) will look to bounce back when they visit the Memphis Grizzlies on Wednesday night, while the Pelicans (17-42) hit the road to face the Utah Jazz on Thursday.
For New Orleans, Tuesday’s win was about more than just two points in the standings. It was a celebration of resilience, brotherhood, and the return of a player who’s overcome significant adversity to get back on the court.
