Golden State Warriors score NBA-record 51 first-quarter points against Denver Nuggets
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Wednesday 16 January 2019 12:22, UK
The Golden State Warriors poured in an NBA-record 51 first-quarter points as they romped to a 142-111 humbling of the Denver Nuggets.
Facing the Western Conference-leading Nuggets in Denver motivated the defending NBA champions to assert their credentials early against a team they could face again the postseason.
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The Warriors hit 10 three-pointers in the first period - a franchise record - as they became the first team to score more than 50 points in a first quarter.
The previous record of 50 points was held by five teams, with the Phoenix Suns the last club to accomplish the feat on November 10, 1990.
The Nuggets came into the game with the NBA's second-ranked three-point defense but it was torn to shreds by the sharpshooting Warriors, who connected on 71.4 per cent of their shots from long range in the opening period.
Kevin Durant had 17 points in the first quarter and capped the period with a three-pointer and a dunk in the closing seconds. Curry had 12 first-quarter points from four three-pointers while backcourt partner Klay Thompson went one better with 13, including three triples.
"Beautiful, beautiful basketball," Warriors coach Steve Kerr said. "Just liked the way our guys moved the ball, the shot fakes, playing with purpose, playing with a simple style of execution but aggressive at the same time. Finding that balance is always what we're looking for. That was as good as it gets for us.
"I don't remember a better first quarter. That was a fireworks show."
