Jeremy T. Ringfield's Blog, page 242

January 6, 2025

Horoscopes Jan. 6, 2025: Kate McKinnon, choose what makes you feel good about yourself

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Kate McKinnon, 41; Julie Chen, 55; Gabrielle Reece, 55; Rowan Atkinson, 70.

Happy Birthday: Explore the possibilities and consider utilizing your resources to achieve your goals. Ask questions and verify the information before you begin something new or commit to anything that requires your time, money or energy. Use only what you need, simplify your life and speak the truth; you can reverse the negativity you encounter with positive reinforcement. Choose what makes you feel good about yourself and promotes self-satisfaction and happiness. Your numbers are 6, 14, 23, 30, 35, 39, 42.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Share your feelings and start conversations that lead to new beginnings or to a better understanding of life goals and who you want to share them with. Question anyone offering ambiguous answers. Concentrate on getting your priorities straight and your emotions under control. Offer a blunt assessment of your expectations. 3 stars

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): A change will be uplifting. Whether you travel somewhere exotic or move things around at home to make your surroundings user-friendly, it will give you a new lease on life that inspires you to reinvent yourself and change your routine to suit your mood and needs. 3 stars

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Ease into your day slowly. Lean toward simplifying your life and lowering your overhead. Rethink how and what you want to achieve and set boundaries with people who tend to take advantage of you if you give them a chance. When uncertainty kicks in, take a step back and reflect. 4 stars

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Stop letting emotional issues take over. Turn a negative into a positive, or a challenge into a creation, and fill your heart with hope and gratitude. Attend a reunion or call an old friend you miss and reconnect. Put your energy into positive change, helping those less fortunate or a romantic gesture. 2 stars

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Learn from experience, not by listening to those who talk big and brag about their so-called achievements. Refrain from losing hope or forgoing the things you feel passionate about. Engage in pastimes that challenge and stimulate your mind, body and soul. Put everything you’ve got into following your heart and dreams. 5 stars

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): A change to how you present yourself and what you offer will impact your relationships with associates. Network, but don’t commit to something that benefits someone else more than it does you. Uncertainty regarding your position or a meaningful partnership will unfold and require your attention. Make your reputation a priority. 3 stars

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Search for opportunities. Protect your reputation, position and assets. Keep your personal information and your intentions to yourself. A domestic or lifestyle change that helps lower your overhead will ease stress. Stick to basics, the truth and fair play to avoid adverse reactions. Finish what you start. 3 stars

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Risks will lead to mishaps. Protect against accidents, injuries and large crowds. An upbeat domestic environment will encourage better relationships with loved ones and make you feel at ease. Self-improvement and personal growth are favored, and an opportunity to adopt a unique lifestyle will boost your confidence. 3 stars

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Take a back-row seat and observe. Witness what others do and say and assess situations before you engage. Put more time and effort into investments, your home environment and how you feel about yourself and your direction. Be direct; ask questions if someone’s intentions aren’t clear. 5 stars

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Restructure your routine, lifestyle and connections to fit who you are and what you want to achieve. Channel your energy into something that makes you feel alive. A pastime that excites you will have an energizing effect on your life and what you accomplish. Make health and love priorities. 2 stars

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Keep the momentum flowing, and you’ll achieve your goals. Transforming your space into a work-friendly environment will help you finish what you start. Think twice before you sign up for or donate to something you know little about. You are better off paying down debt or investing in yourself. 4 stars

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): You can charm your way in or out of every situation you encounter with words, compliments and innovative suggestions. Don’t hesitate to voice your opinion or to travel to a destination that offers a platform to strut what you have to offer and encourages positive change. Advancement is apparent. 3 stars

Birthday Baby: You are creative, talkative and ambitious. You are charismatic and resourceful.

1 star: Avoid conflicts; work behind the scenes. 2 stars: You can accomplish, but don’t rely on others. 3 stars: Focus and you’ll reach your goals. 4 stars: Aim high; start new projects. 5 stars: Nothing can stop you; go for gold.

Visit Eugenialast.com, or join Eugenia on Twitter/Facebook/LinkedIn.

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Published on January 06, 2025 03:00

January 5, 2025

Curry looks fresh but lacks support in Warriors’ 30-point loss to Kings

SAN FRANCISCO — One team added its star guard back to its starting lineup; the other’s spent Sunday night in street clothes.

The results may surprise you.

Despite playing with a well-rested Steph Curry, the Warriors (18-17) otherwise looked listless in a 129-99 loss to the Sacramento Kings (17-19), who were missing All-Star De’Aaron Fox and fired their head coach less than two weeks ago. They matched a season-worst with 22 turnovers, never held a lead and trailed by such a large margin that Curry spent the entire fourth quarter on the bench with a towel draped over his head.

“That was the game, to me,” coach Steve Kerr said of the Warriors’ carelessness. “Just right from the start, we were turning it over. The turnovers didn’t feel forced, either. They felt more decision-based, and that’s what was disappointing, knowing that Sacramento likes to play fast and get up and down the floor.”

Golden State Warriors’ Stephen Curry (30) take a shot against Sacramento Kings’ Keegan Murray (13) in the second quarter at the Chase Center in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

Curry finished with a team-high 26 points, including 20 of Golden State’s 51 in the first half, while connecting on seven of his first eight shots from the field (4 for 5 from 3). However, his supporting cast — minus Jonathan Kuminga (ankle), Gary Payton II (calf) and Brandon Podziemski (abdomen) — lacked the firepower to keep up with the Kings.

“When you’re looking up and it’s a double-digit lead before the first timeout, and (then) 36-21, we’re not really built to have that crazy comeback,” a dejected Curry said afterward. “I don’t want to overreact to it, but we also have to address the execution that we didn’t do out there. … I would have loved to have started the game a lot better to give ourselves a chance and not be in that situation where you have to have crazy offensive fireworks to even have a chance.”

Earlier in the day, the Warriors learned they would be without Kuminga for at least the next three weeks after an MRI revealed a “significant” ankle sprain, and the early returns on his replacement as an offensive partner for Curry weren’t particularly encouraging.

Andrew Wiggins scored 18 points in 26 minutes, but Golden State’s offense stalled out without Curry on the floor. Moses Moody (13 points) and Draymond Green (10) were the only other Warriors to reach double figures, and Kerr said they lacked a “sense of purpose” on their possessions.

“He’s been one of our best players over the last few weeks,” center Kevon Looney said of Kuminga. “He provides something special for us and brings a different energy in that second group. He’s definitely going to be missed. It’s something we needed tonight, somebody to put pressure on the rim.”

Defensively, the Warriors didn’t provide much resistance to a Kings team missing its leading scorer. In place of Fox (26.7 PPG), who was resting a sore hip, eight Kings players scored in double figures, including double-doubles from Damantas Sabonis (22 points, 13 rebounds) and Malik Monk (26 points, 12 assists).

“Point of attack, they were getting downhill on us and we’re having to help and then they’re spreading the floor,” Kerr said. “They’ve got shooting everywhere. They’ve built a team in the last couple years that can shoot from 1 through 4, so they spread us out and did a great job.”

Sacramento turned the Warriors’ 22 turnovers into 34 points and connected on 19 of its 43 attempts from beyond the arc (51.7% overall).

Golden State Warriors’ Moses Moody (4) fights for the ball against Sacramento Kings’ Malik Monk (0) in the third quarter at the Chase Center in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

“Turnovers killed us tonight,” said Looney, who added nine points and five rebounds. “Sacramento played a great game, but we helped them with our offense, turning the ball over and letting them get out and run, make shots and do what they do. Turnovers definitely played a huge factor.”

The rout was a rarity for the Warriors, who had been involved in more clutch games (within 5 points in the final 5 minutes) than any other team in the NBA. It was their second-widest margin of any loss this season. So uncompetitive, Curry accrued all his numbers in the first three quarters. Trailing 105-75 by the start of the final period, there was no point in putting additional strain on a 37-year-old with tendonitis in both his knees.

“A loss is a loss, but it’s not any more alarming than any other loss,” Kerr said. “This is the NBA these days. It’s such a fast game with so many 3s that there are just going to be some nights where everything goes your way or everything goes the other team’s way.”

Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr sits on the bench during their game against the Sacramento Kings in the third quarter at the Chase Center in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

After beating the Grizzlies the previous night while Curry rested, the Warriors appeared to have emerged from the doldrums of a 3-12 stretch that negated a 12-3 start. They had strung together wins for the first time in six weeks, were looking ahead to a softening schedule and were getting a freshly rested Curry back.

“I thought we had been headed in the right direction over this home stand,” Looney said. “Every night isn’t perfect, but I think we’re doing better habits. Tonight was a tough one. We didn’t play to our standard. We didn’t play poised like we usually do. We’ll be better. I think tonight was just one of those days and we’re heading in the right direction.”

Curry got off to the start expected from somebody who got the previous night off. By halftime, he had completed more 4-point plays (two) than he had missed shots (one, on seven attempts, including five from 3). But the Warriors allowed the Kings to shoot 57.4% from the field, pouring in more first-half points than any opponent all season besides the Cavaliers (83 on November 8) or Mavericks (81 on December 15).

It was Curry’s seventh 20-point half of the season and only the second time in his career that he recorded multiple 4-point plays in one game. His second, with Sabonis flying in his face, capped a flurry that cut the Kings’ advantage from 15 points to four in a span of 1:07, but the Warriors were outscored 35-16 over the remainder of the quarter and took a 75-51 deficit into intermission.

The Warriors never recovered from a sloppy first quarter, committing eight turnovers that led to 11 Sacramento points while being outscored 36-21. The Kings were able to attempt five more field goals and got to the line four times. They had few answers for Sabonis, who ended the quarter in appropriate fashion, drawing Trayce Jackson-Davis out of the paint with a pump fake before driving and dunking over him emphatically.

“I don’t know how many turnovers we had in that quarter, but it felt like a lot,” Kerr said. “Our transition defense was bad and they were hot right from the beginning.”

“It was just kind of a mindless first quarter that established their dominance,” Curry added, “and we had no answer for it.”

Sacramento Kings’ Malik Monk (0) dunks the ball against Golden State Warriors’ Kyle Anderson (1) in the third quarter at the Chase Center in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

Sacramento Kings’ Malik Monk (0) dribbles against Golden State Warriors’ Andrew Wiggins (22) and Golden State Warriors’ Trayce Jackson-Davis (32) in the third quarter at the Chase Center in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

Golden State Warriors’ Stephen Curry (30) dribbles against Sacramento Kings’ Keon Ellis (23) in the first quarter at the Chase Center in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

Golden State Warriors’ Buddy Hield (7) takes a shot against Sacramento Kings’ Domantas Sabonis (11) in the first quarter at the Chase Center in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

Golden State Warriors’ Stephen Curry (30) takes a 3-point shot against the Sacramento Kings in the first quarter at the Chase Center in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

Golden State Warriors’ Draymond Green (23) scores a 3-point basket against Sacramento Kings’ Alex Len (25) in the second quarter at the Chase Center in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

Golden State Warriors’ Draymond Green (23) heads to the bench for a timeout after a basket by the Sacramento Kings in the second quarter at the Chase Center in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

Golden State Warriors’ Stephen Curry (30) argues a call with a referee during their game against the Sacramento Kings in the second quarter at the Chase Center in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

Golden State Warriors’ Kevon Looney (5) takes a shot against Sacramento Kings’ Keegan Murray (13) in the second quarter at the Chase Center in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

Golden State Warriors’ Kevon Looney (5) take a shot against Sacramento Kings’ Domantas Sabonis (11) in the second quarter at the Chase Center in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

Golden State Warriors owner Joe Lacob hands a referee the ball during the Warriors game against the Sacramento Kings in the third quarter at the Chase Center in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

Sacramento Kings’ Keon Ellis (23) knocks the ball out of Golden State Warriors’ Stephen Curry’s (30) hand in the second quarter at the Chase Center in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

Golden State Warriors’ Andrew Wiggins (22) takes a shot against Sacramento Kings’ Domantas Sabonis (11) in the second quarter at the Chase Center in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

Golden State Warriors’ Moses Moody (4) attempts to block a 3-point shot against Sacramento Kings’ Devin Carter (22) in the third quarter at the Chase Center in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

Sacramento Kings’ Malik Monk (0) celebrates his dunk against the Golden State Warriors in the third quarter at the Chase Center in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

Golden State Warriors’ Stephen Curry (30) sits on the bench next to Golden State Warriors’ Buddy Hield (7) in the final seconds of the fourth quarter in their 129-99 loss to the Sacramento Kings at the Chase Center in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

Golden State Warriors’ Stephen Curry (30) sits on the bench next to Golden State Warriors’ Buddy Hield (7) during their game against the Sacramento Kings in the fourth quarter at the Chase Center in San Francisco, Calif., on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

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Published on January 05, 2025 19:53

Did the 49ers find their 2025 backup quarterback in Josh Dobbs?

There’s no sense in over-analyzing what amounted to a fourth preseason game Sunday in Arizona.

Deebo Samuel was in sunglasses and smiling on the sideline. In the second quarter, George Kittle wrote “Hi Mom!” on his tablet and positioned himself for the cameras so it could be shown on the air. Brock Purdy was in a ballcap and following along with the play sheet.

The 49ers lost to the Cardinals 47-24, finished the season 6-11 and that’s the end of the story.

But you wonder if coach Kyle Shanahan may be regretting leaving Josh Dobbs behind Brandon Allen on the quarterback depth chart most of the season and even starting Allen in Green Bay when Purdy couldn’t play.

Not that the decision made a difference in the grand scheme of things or even on Sunday. But even with a bad lost fumble and two interceptions, Dobbs had the look of someone who could be a viable backup for the 49ers going forward.

The problem? Dobbs signed a one-year contract last offseason and is a free agent. It will be up to Shanahan to sell Dobbs on the idea that being No. 2 for the 49ers in 2025 is a better situation than signing on to start for another potential also-ran that presumably doesn’t have the bounce-back capability of the 49ers.

Joshua Dobbs #5 of the San Francisco 49ers runs the ball against the Arizona Cardinals during the first quarter at State Farm Stadium on Jan. 05, 2025 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Norm Hall/Getty Images)

Dobbs wasn’t anywhere near perfect, with the careless lost sideline fumble more egregious than either of the two interceptions. His first interception took a remarkable catch from Sean Murphy-Bunting when Dobbs and Jauan Jennings weren’t on the same page. The second glanced off the outstretched hands of Ricky Pearsall.

But Dobbs lost Jennings when the wide receiver was baited into an ejection in the first half after a pair of personal fouls following overly enthusiastic blocks while he was 25 yards short of 1,000 on the season. Kittle took a seat in the second quarter and didn’t return. Isaac Guerendo lasted two carries before suffering a knee/ankle injury, leaving journeyman Patrick Taylor Jr. to carry the load.

For much of the game, Dobbs, who was elevated above Allen only in what Shanahan considered “scramble” games, looked comfortable operating the offense to its specifications while using his legs only when necessary.

“I did feel good out there,” Dobbs said. “I felt like I was seeing what the defense was doing pre-snap, post-snap, being able to take advantage of their looks. Hit the big play when it was there and also check it down and let the guys get some run after a catch.”

Dobbs completed 29 of 43 passes for a career-high 326 yards, with touchdown passes of 6 yards to Pearsall and 36 yards to Kyle Jusczcyk. He also scored a touchdown on a 1-yard run. It didn’t look like a scramble drill. It looked like someone who could be a fit for Shanahan’s offense.

49ers quarterback Joshua Dobbs #5 fumbles the ball during the fourth quarter of the San Francisco 49ers and Arizona Cardinals game played at State Farm Stadium on Jan. 5, 2025 in Glendale, Arizona. The Cardinals defeated the 49ers 47-24...(John Medina/Special to Bay Area News Group)

John Medina special to Bay Area News GroupJosh Dobbs loses a fumble in the third quarter of a 49ers’ loss to Arizona.

Afterward, Shanahan’s praise for Dobbs, who turns 30 later this month, was more faint than forceful.

“I thought Dobbs did a really good job minus the turnovers,” Shanahan said. “You take out those turnovers and I thought he had a hell of a game.”

It’s incumbent upon the 49ers to have a veteran backup who can step in for two reasons. First, Purdy missed a pair of games due to injury this season and his irritated elbow is at least cause for minor concern considering it underwent major repairs after the 2022 season.

Second, Purdy is due a big-money contract extension in the offseason and the 49ers haven’t been the most expedient team at getting those deals done in a timely fashion. On the off chance that there is difficulty making the deal, the 49ers will want a veteran quarterback taking charge of things in OTAs and training camp if necessary.

After being involved with eight different organizations over an eight-year career, Dobbs put his feet down in one place in 2024.

“What I’ve learned is the best opportunities to learn and grow are to be standing out on the field in the fire and learning how to win games in the NFL,” Dobbs said. “I haven’t got a lot of opportunities to do that. Being in the same offense throughout the year, this is the first opportunity I’ve had in my NFL career.”

On that level, staying in the same place might be appealing even if it’s as a backup.

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall (14) celebrates his touchdown catch with quarterback Joshua Dobbs (5) during the first half of an NFL football game in Glendale, Ariz., Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)

“I want to go to a spot where I get a chance to compete, whether it’s for the starting job or the No. 2,” Dobbs said. “To be able to push the room and contribute week in and week out and be a guy that the team is relying on.”

Kittle wasn’t expansive when it came to Dobbs, but appreciated his approach all week after Shanahan said Purdy wouldn’t play.

“You guys will get answers from him on how he thought he played,” Kittle said. “I appreciated his grit, his toughness and his eagerness to play this week and I think that really helped us out a lot.”

Even without turnovers, it was going to be nearly impossible for Dobbs to author a winning effort Sunday. Not with the 49ers losing starting safeties Talanoa Hufanga (concussion) and Malik Mustpapa (knee) before halftime and giving up yardage in clusters to Kyler Murray and Co.

The 49ers’ 2-7 nosedive following their bye saw them play their last 552 defensive snaps since Evan Anderson recovered a gift fumble against Chicago without a takeaway. They were a minus-14 in turnover margin since they were 4-4 at the bye.

Not even Joe Montana or Steve Young could put a team in the playoffs under those circumstances. The question is whether Dobbs, who played on a one-year, $2.25 million contract, would accept a relatively modest contract upgrade to stick around for another year.

“I want to have a consistent environment, a consistent coaching staff and be the best version of myself every single day,” Dobbs said. “I’ll be excited to hit the ground running when March comes around and we’ll see where this football journey takes me.”

49ers quarterback Joshua Dobbs #5 sits frustrated after fumbling the ball during the fourth quarter of the San Francisco 49ers and Arizona Cardinals game played at State Farm Stadium on Jan. 5, 2025 in Glendale, Arizona. The Cardinals defeated the 49ers 47-24…(John Medina/Special to Bay Area News Group)

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Published on January 05, 2025 18:45

Golden Globes 2025: Full list of winners

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. (AP) — “Emilia Pérez” won best musical or comedy motion picture at the 82nd Golden Globes.

“The Brutalist″ won best motion picture drama, and Adrien Brody took home best actor for his role in the film.

“Shōgun“ won best television drama, and ”Hacks” won for TV comedy or musical. Emilia Pérez” entered the night as the lead nominee, with 10 nods.

Demi Moore, Sebastian Stan, Zoe Saldaña, Kieran Culkin and Jean Smart were among the acting winners.

Comedian Nikki Glaser hosted Sunday’s ceremony from the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California.

At a gala dinner Friday, Viola Davis received the Cecil B. DeMille Award, and Ted Danson accepted the Carol Burnett Award. The Globes aired on CBS and streamed live for subscribers to Paramount+ with Showtime.

Here’s a list of winners at Sunday’s Golden Globes:

Anna Sawai poses in the press room with the award for best performance by a female actor in a television series – drama for “Shogun” during the 82nd Golden Globes on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, Calif. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

Jodie Foster poses in the press room with the award for best performance by a female actor in a limited series, anthology series, or a motion picture made for television for “True Detective: Night Country” during the 82nd Golden Globes on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, Calif. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

Demi Moore poses in the press room with the award for best performance by a female actor in a motion picture – musical or comedy for “The Substance” during the 82nd Golden Globes on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, Calif. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

US actor Sebastian Stan poses with the Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Motion Picture Musical or Comedy award for “A Different Man” in the press room during the 82nd annual Golden Globe Awards at the Beverly Hilton hotel in Beverly Hills, California, on January 5, 2025. (Photo by Robyn BECK / AFP) (Photo by ROBYN BECK/AFP via Getty Images)

(L-R) Film producer Ron Dyens, Latvian filmmaker Gints Zilbalodis, and Latvian film producer Matiss Kaza, pose with the Best Motion Picture – Animated award for “Flow” in the press room during the 82nd annual Golden Globe Awards at the Beverly Hilton hotel in Beverly Hills, California, on January 5, 2025. (Photo by Robyn Beck / AFP) (Photo by ROBYN BECK/AFP via Getty Images)

Tadanobu Asano poses in the press room with the award for best performance by a male actor in a supporting role on television for “Shogun” during the 82nd Golden Globes on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, Calif. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 05: Tadanobu Asano, winner of the Best Supporting Performance in a Series, Limited Series, Anthology Series, or Motion Picture Made for Television award for “Shōgun,” poses in the press room during the 82nd Annual Golden Globe Award at The Beverly Hilton on January 05, 2025 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images)

BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 05: Ali Wong, winner of the Best Performance in Stand-Up Comedy on Television award for “Single Lady,” poses in the press room during the 82nd Annual Golden Globe Award at The Beverly Hilton on January 05, 2025 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images)

British director, screenwriter Peter Straughan poses with the Best Screenplay – Motion Picture award for “Conclave” in the press room during the 82nd annual Golden Globe Awards at the Beverly Hilton hotel in Beverly Hills, California, on January 5, 2025. (Photo by Robyn BECK / AFP) (Photo by ROBYN BECK/AFP via Getty Images)

BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 05: (L-R) Kieran Culkin, winner of the Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role in Any Motion Picture award for “A Real Pain,” and Jazz Charton pose in the press room during the 82nd Annual Golden Globe Award at The Beverly Hilton on January 05, 2025 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images)

BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 05: Hiroyuki Sanada, winner of the Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Series – Drama award for “Shōgun,” poses in the press room during the 82nd Annual Golden Globe Award at The Beverly Hilton on January 05, 2025 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images)

Irish actor Colin Farrell poses with the Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Limited Series, Anthology Series, or a Motion Picture Made for Television award for “The Penguin” in the press room during the 82nd annual Golden Globe Awards at the Beverly Hilton hotel in Beverly Hills, California, on January 5, 2025. (Photo by Robyn Beck / AFP) (Photo by ROBYN BECK/AFP via Getty Images)

Zoe Saldana poses in the press room with the award for best performance by a female actor in a supporting role in any motion picture for “Emilia Perez” during the 82nd Golden Globes on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, Calif. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

Adriana Paz, from left, Edgar Ramirez, Selena Gomez, Jacques Audiard, Karla Sofia Gascon, and Zoe Saldana pose in the press room with the award for best motion picture – musical or comedy for “Emilia Perez” during the 82nd Golden Globes on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, Calif. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

Selena Gomez, left, and Jacques Audiard pose in the press room with the award for best motion picture – musical or comedy for “Emilia Perez” during the 82nd Golden Globes on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, Calif. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

Demi Moore poses in the press room with the award...

Tadanobu Asano, from left, Hiroyuki Sanada, Rachel Kondo and Justin Marks pose in the press room with the award for best television series – drama for “Shogun” during the 82nd Golden Globes on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, Calif. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

Fernanda Torres poses in the press room with the award for best performance by a female actor in a motion picture – drama for “I’m Still Here” during the 82nd Golden Globes on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, Calif. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

Jean Smart, left, and Hannah Einbinder pose in the press room with the award for best television series – musical or comedy for “Hacks” during the 82nd Golden Globes on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, Calif. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

Adam Bricker, from left, Jen Statsky, Jean Smart, Hannah Einbinder, Lucia Aniello, and Paul W. Downs pose in the press room with the award for best television series – musical or comedy for “Hacks” during the 82nd Golden Globes on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, Calif. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

Jessica Gunning, from left, Richard Gadd, and Nava Mau pose in the press room with the award for best television limited series, anthology series, or motion picture made for television for “Baby Reindeer” during the 82nd Golden Globes on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, Calif. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

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MoviesBest motion picture, drama

“The Brutalist”

Best motion picture, musical or comedy

“Emilia Pérez”

Best performance by a female actor in a motion picture, drama

Fernanda Torres, “I’m Still Here”

Best performance by a male actor in a motion picture, drama

Adrien Brody, “The Brutalist”

Best performance by a female actor in a motion picture, musical or comedy

Demi Moore, “The Substance”

Best performance by a male actor in a motion picture, musical or comedy

Sebastian Stan, “A Different Man”

Best performance by a female actor in a supporting role, movie

Zoe Saldaña, “Emilia Pérez”

Best performance by a male actor in a supporting role, movie

Kieran Culkin, “A Real Pain”

Cinematic and Box Office Achievement

“Wicked”

Best motion picture, non-English

“Emilia Pérez”

Best motion picture, animated

“Flow”

Best director

Brady Corbet, “The Brutalist”

Best screenplay

Peter Straughan, “Conclave”

Best original score

Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, “Challengers”

Best original song

“El Mal” from “Emilia Pérez” music/lyrics by Clément Ducol, Camille, Jacques Audiard

TelevisionBest television series, drama

“Shōgun”

Best television series, comedy or musical

“Hacks”

Best performance by a female actor, TV series, drama

Anna Sawai, “Shōgun”

Best performance by a male actor, TV series, drama

Hiroyuki Sanada, “Shōgun”

Best performance by a female actor TV series, musical or comedy

Jean Smart, “Hacks”

Best performance by a male actor, TV series, musical or comedy

Jeremy Allen White, “The Bear”

Best limited series, anthology series or movie made for television

“Baby Reindeer”

Best performance by a male actor in a limited series, anthology series or movie made for television

Colin Farrell, “The Penguin”

Best performance by a female actor in a limited series, anthology series or movie made for television

Jodie Foster, ”True Detective: Night Country”

Best performance by a female actor in a supporting role, TV

Jessica Gunning, “Baby Reindeer”

Best performance by a male actor in a supporting role, TV

Tadanobu Asano, “Shōgun”

Best performance in stand-up comedy on TV

Ali Wong, “Ali Wong: Single Lady”

For more coverage of the 2025 Golden Globe Awards, visit: https://apnews.com/hub/golden-globe-awards

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Published on January 05, 2025 18:25

Kurtenbach: Nothing went right for the 2024 49ers. Now, everything needs to go right this offseason

Four years ago, the 49ers capped a disastrous, no-good, nothing-could-go-right 2020 season with a loss at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona — their temporary home amid the COVID pandemic.

So the venue was certainly fitting for the end of another disastrous, no-good, nothing-could-go-right season on Sunday.

The 49ers finished the 2024 season with six wins and a last-place finish. Thinking back on the last 18 weeks, that status almost feels too positive for this embarrassment of a team.

And that’s not my adjective. It’s star defensive end Nick Bosa’s:

“Kind of an embarrassment. It doesn’t feel good. It’s hard to look the guys in their faces as a leader on the team, and that’s the product that we keep putting out game after game. It’s pretty embarrassing,” Bosa said after the Niners’ 47-24 loss to the Cardinals.

Yes, the 49ers entered the season with a Super Bowl-or-bust attitude, but it busted out well before Sunday.

Was it Week 15, when the Niners effectively eliminated themselves from playoff contention, or the abysmal losses to bookend Thanksgiving that did the 49ers in?

Or was the late-game choke loss to the Seahawks in Week 11 the death knell for these Niners?

San Francisco 49ers’ Brandon Aiyuk (11) lies on the field after being injured against the Kansas City Chiefs in the second quarter at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif., on Sunday, Oct. 20, 2024. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

Maybe it was Week 7 when the Chiefs came to town and stomped them in a Super Bowl rematch, with the Niners losing Brandon Aiyuk for the season.

The two early-season fourth-quarter collapses to the Rams and Cardinals were certainly ominous omens. Those losses put the 49ers in a hole from which they never escaped.

Or one could argue that this season was over after Week 1— arguably their best win of the season. That’s when MVP-caliber running back Christian McCaffrey was ruled out at the last minute. The Niners kept him out for two months after that.

Maybe the 49ers’ season was cursed before it even officially started, when they had the worst training camp in recent memory, marred by aimless, blubbering contract negotiations with Trent Williams and Aiyuk, and a rotating list of absentees, compounded by a sense of entitlement that was never close to justified for this season.

Oh, and the team’s first-round pick was shot in San Francisco on Labor Day weekend, just for good measure. The football gods went overboard with that smiting — leave the kids out of it. (Ricky Pearsall, it should be noted, recovered and played as well as any 49er in the season’s final weeks.)

So, no, this was not just a “down” year for the Niners. It was a culmination of three or four bad years into one.

And to fix it, the Niners’ braintrust — head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch — need to do the work of three or four good offseasons in the seven months before training camp 2025 arrives.

49ers running back Patrick Taylor, Jr. #32 runs for yardage during the first half of the San Francisco 49ers and Arizona Cardinals game played at State Farm Stadium on Jan. 5, 2025 in Glendale, Arizona. (John Medina/Special to Bay Area News Group)

This kneecap of a campaign, now mercifully over, will, like the 2020 season, define Shanahan and Lynch.

The duo built this team up, went to a Super Bowl, lost, and then fell apart the season after.

But the 2021 49ers were young and spry, and they bounced back (though it took a while for the team to get going). The Niners followed a tough 2020 with three straight NFC Championship Game appearances, proving that the infinitely injurious season was merely a blip. Yes, after resurrecting this organization from the depths of ineptitude, Shanahan and Lynch’s program proved resilient and it became the envy of the league, spawning copycats from coast to coast.

But here’s the thing about the NFL: Unless you have Tom Brady or Patrick Mahomes at quarterback, it’s not built for sustainable success. The acronym might as well stand for “Not For Long.”

Annual poaching from other teams looking for a bit of the 49ers’ secret sauce depleted the team’s deep bench of players and coaches. Shanahan and Lynch, undoubtedly constrained by a shorter offseason than their peers, proved incapable of replenishing it.

And that issue is most responsible for this 2024 collapse. Whatever luck smoothed over previous Niners teams’ faults did not come with them to this season, and the team didn’t have the depth on the roster or brainpower in the coaching ranks to remain competitive as injuries reached comical levels.

49ers receiver Jauan Jennings #15 scuffles with Cardinals cornerback Sean Murphy-Bunting #23 during during the first half of the San Francisco 49ers and Arizona Cardinals game played at State Farm Stadium on Jan. 5, 2025 in Glendale, Arizona. Both players were ejected. (John Medina/Special to Bay Area News Group)

If this was another organization — a worse operation — Shanahan and Lynch would be looking for new jobs by the time you read this. The 49ers were once that bottom-of-the-barrel operation. Don’t forget that Shanahan was the team’s fourth head coach in four years when he arrived in Santa Clara.

But that’s no longer the case. With Shanahan and Lynch calling the shots, the Niners have become one of the steadiest franchises in the NFL. Yes, this is their mess: You’d be hard-pressed to find a team that wasted more money in free agency, all while putting together three of the worst draft classes in the league before a solid 2024. But Shanahan and Lynch’ deserve the opportunity to clean it up.

Where to begin?

Frankly, there’s so much to do, anywhere will do.

After all, the 49ers finished with a worse record than the Dallas Cowboys, who were without their starting quarterback, Dak Prescott, for more than half a season, boasted one of the worst defenses in the NFL and lacked a single viable running back on their roster.

There are big things, like if they’ll fire their defensive and special teams coordinators and how much they’ll pay quarterback Brock Purdy on a new contract. (That is, if they pay him.) Will Deebo Samuel stick around for another season? That’s a big call to make, too.

Joshua Dobbs #5 of the San Francisco 49ers looks to pass against the Arizona Cardinals during the first quarter at State Farm Stadium on Jan. 05, 2025 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

There are the obvious things, like nailing both free agency (even with Purdy signed, they’ll have money to spend) and the draft, as this team needs to replenish its depth overall, with a special focus on its offensive and defensive lines.

And then there are the little things, like making sure the next batch of entry-level coaches and front-office executives have the moxie and brainpower to quickly move up the ladder, as so many members of the Santa Clara diaspora did before them.

Between July 2024 and January 2025, it seemed as if nothing went right for the Niners.

Between January and July 2025, nearly everything will need to go right.

If that happens, perhaps the Niners can talk about winning a sixth Super Bowl title again in the near future.

But the right to consider this team — this organization — a perennial contender to the crown? That was the 49ers’ most significant loss of the season.

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Jauan Jennings (15) is tackled by Arizona Cardinals cornerback Garrett Williams (21) during the first half of an NFL football game in Glendale, Ariz., Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

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Published on January 05, 2025 18:06

Warriors’ Steve Kerr still in ‘shock’ over Kings’ firing of Mike Brown

SAN FRANCISCO — Steve Kerr had a hard time believing who was — or rather wasn’t — on the visitor’s bench Sunday night.

A week and a half following the Kings’ decision to part ways with Mike Brown, the Warriors coach was still processing the decision. Brown, a member of Kerr’s staff from 2016-22 and the NBA’s coach of the year in 2022-23, was fired on Dec. 27 amid a five-game skid that sank Sacramento to 13-18 to start the season.

“I’m still in shock with the Kings coming here tonight. I’m shocked that he got fired,” said Kerr, who was also outspoken immediately in the wake of the move. “The job he’s done the last couple years, where that team is, where that franchise is now, compared to when he came aboard. We all go through stretches. We just lost 12 of 15. Everybody in the league goes through stretches. Miami just lost by 35 at home to Utah. They’re not firing Erik Spoelstra.

“All of these issues that we face as organizations, it’s a group effort. We all share blame when things go wrong. I just had a really hard time understanding with what Mike has done there how that move was made. But it was made.”

When Brown was hired in 2022 after helping the Warriors to the NBA championship, the Kings had missed the playoffs for 16 straight seasons and hadn’t posted a winning record since 2006. In two-plus seasons, Brown compiled a 107-88 record and took Sacramento to the playoffs in both full seasons under his watch.

But it was Doug Christie at the head of the Kings’ bench Sunday. In four games since he was named interim head coach, Sacramento had gone 3-1 entering its matchup against Golden State.

Brown led practice the day he was fired and received the news on his way to board the team’s flight for its next road trip. He has not issued a public comment since the move was made.

While Kerr said the two have spoken, he declined to share the details of their discussions.

“Obviously all of that remains private,” Kerr said. “But Mike’s a great friend and a great coach.”

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Published on January 05, 2025 17:57

Host Nikki Glaser roasts Harrison Ford, Benny Blanco in Golden Globes opening monologue

Comedian Nikki Glaser didn’t hold back while hosting the 82nd Annual Golden Globes on Sunday, taking shots at Harrison Ford, Nicole Kidman, Adrien Brody and Benny Blanco.

Glaser kicked off the ceremony by teasing that the Golden Globes are “Ozempic’s biggest night,” before turning her attention to the individual celebrities in the audience.

“I was actually talking to Harrison backstage and after he gave me his drink order, I said, ‘Would you rather work with Zendaya or Ariana?’ He said Indica so we’re going to find him some so he has a good time tonight,” Glaser joked, referring to decades of reports about Ford’s weed-smoking exploits.

Georgia Ford, left, and Harrison Ford arrive at the 82nd Golden Globes on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, Calif. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

The comedian then shifted to Kidman, saying, “Nicole Kidman is here, oh my gosh, nominated for ‘Babygirl.’ So good, I love that movie. I give it two fingers up,” making a not-so-subtle nod to the sexual scenes in the film.

Glaser also poked fun at “two-time Holocaust survivor” Adrien Brody for his role in “The Brutalist,” similar to his Oscar-winning role in 2002’s “The Pianist.”

The host then called out Selena Gomez, before addressing her date: “She’s here tonight with her new fiancé, Benny Blanco. And Benny Blanco is here because of the genie who granted him that wish. Lucky guy.”

Selena Gomez, left, and Benny Blanco arrive at the 82nd Golden Globes on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, Calif. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

Glaser made history as the first woman to host the Golden Globes solo. While she sells out comedy shows around the world, Sunday’s event was her biggest audience to date — and she made sure that she was ready for it.

On the red carpet ahead of the ceremony, the 40-year-old told E! News that she practiced her opening monologue a total of 93 times.

“This will be my 94th time telling some version of this,” she told host Zuri Hall. “It’s still changed even from the last time I told it until now. We’re constantly making edits, trying to top jokes, trying to strike the right note and tone for the evening.”

Glaser was feeling so prepared that she was even getting ready to “go a little wild” if the moment called for it.

“I practiced so much so that when I get up there, I can just be in it. And then that’s when stuff’s gonna start coming out that wasn’t planned,” she said. “I’m suddenly going to see the people I’m talking about. It’s gonna set off something new in my head, for sure.”

Despite being widely known for her controversial punchlines — including her epic evisceration of NFL legend Tom Brady during his Netflix roast in May — Glaser said last month that she wasn’t “out for blood” with her opening monologue, but admitted that everyone in attendance would be fair game.

“It’s still a big, glitzy, glamorous event where people are taking themselves too seriously. So it’s walking a line with them,” the comedian said. “I want it to be edgy enough to please the people at home. … Even though we all worship the Hollywood elite, they still want me to put them in their place.”

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Published on January 05, 2025 17:53

Horoscopes Jan. 5, 2025: Bradley Cooper, make this year one to remember

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: January Jones, 47; Bradley Cooper, 50; Carrie Ann Inaba, 57; Diane Keaton, 79.

Happy Birthday: Let your creativity lead the way and spice up your dialogue to ensure you grab the spotlight when presenting what you want to convey. When you want to get ahead, strategy is everything, but so are validity and honor. Sticking to facts and figures using colorful dialogue will prove effective and profitable. Spend more time honing your skills, presentation and appeal, and make this year one to remember. Your numbers are 1, 12, 24, 29, 32, 38, 45.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Refuse to get bogged down by trivial matters, gossip and misinformation. Stay focused on what matters to you and be the one to contribute or make a difference. Actions speak louder than words, and they will impact how others respond. Step up and do your part. 3 stars

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Anger isn’t the answer. Lead the way with positive action and a kind heart. How you treat others will determine the outcome. Uncertainty will lead to a missed opportunity. Get the lowdown and make your move. Communication, honesty and integrity are the path to success and freedom. 4 stars

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Take a breather, relax, meditate and enjoy yourself. Refuse to let anyone pressure or manipulate you into something you aren’t ready to deal with and spare yourself the grief. Temptation is the enemy; being able to walk away is your right and the passage to peace of mind. 2 stars

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Refuse to let your emotions cloud your vision. Allow your creativity and imagination to shine and take you on a journey. Explore the possibilities and strategize a plan that incorporates what you enjoy doing with bringing in extra cash or as an outlet that offers peace of mind. 2 stars

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Offer help, understanding and compassion to those in need. Don’t limit what you can learn by turning your back on what you fear or don’t understand. Embrace your demons, and your personal growth will lead to a journey you won’t regret. Be part of the solution, not the problem. 5 stars

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Simplify your life by reducing risk and rejecting time-consuming pastimes that bleed you of time better spent elsewhere. Consolidate, consider what’s purposeful and adjust your agenda to suit your needs. Life is a series of choices, and letting temptation and guilt dictate what you sign up for is detrimental. 3 stars

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Dance in the moonlight, seek those who move to the same beat and explore the possibilities. Communication is the road to truth, justice and fair play, and accepting what and who is a keepsake or ridding yourself of negativity will make your journey straightforward. Clear the path to peace and success. 3 stars

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Be the joy in the room. Exude positivity, use your imagination and salute those who speak your language and live your dream. Change is up to you, and versatility and freedom to do as you please while allowing others the same privilege will allow you to explore enchanting possibilities. 5 stars

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Be careful what you wish for. Too much of anything can turn sour. Discipline, hard work and taking responsibility for your words and actions will keep you on the straight and narrow path to better days ahead without regret. Honesty is essential and often painful, but necessary. 2 stars

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): An assertive effort to bring change will pay off. Refrain from offering misinformation or believing everything you hear. Facts matter, and sticking to rules, regulations and proven formats will pay off. Pay attention to detail to avoid discrepancies when dealing with bureaucratic, institutional or financial matters. 4 stars

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Listen, ask questions and disregard far-fetched information. You are best off creating the changes necessary for your happiness, not trying to impress someone who wouldn’t do the same for you. Just be yourself and do your own thing; the right people will find you. Your emotional well-being is your responsibility. 3 stars

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): When you feel at odds, dig deep, ask questions and participate in events that offer insight. Overreacting, indulgence and excess will get in your way if you give in to temptation instead of enforcing discipline and using your skills and experience to stay on track. Choose peace over pressure. 3 stars

Birthday Baby: You are influential, entertaining and diplomatic. You are ambiguous and playful.1 star: Avoid conflicts; work behind the scenes. 2 stars: You can accomplish, but don’t rely on others. 3 stars: Focus and you’ll reach your goals. 4 stars: Aim high; start new projects. 5 stars: Nothing can stop you; go for gold.

Visit Eugenialast.com, or join Eugenia on Twitter/Facebook/LinkedIn.

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Published on January 05, 2025 03:00

January 4, 2025

Warriors bracing for Jonathan Kuminga absence after sprained ankle

SAN FRANCISCO — As Draymond Green held court with reporters in front of his locker, Jonathan Kuminga exited the arena behind him in a hidden alleyway on crutches.

“You alright?” Green asked his teammate.

“Yessir,” Kuminga responded from the hall.

Kuminga sprained his right ankle after landing awkwardly in a crowded paint late in the second quarter of Saturday night’s win over Memphis. He was ruled out for the game shortly after. The team won’t know exactly how severe the sprain is until MRI results come back on Sunday, but head coach Steve Kerr said the injury is “significant” and not a day-to-day ailment.

“Which (expletive) sucks,” Green said.

It sucks because the Warriors need Kuminga, and it sucks because the injury is bound to interrupt the fourth-year wing’s best stretch of his young career. It’s also unfortunate timing, as the Warriors wanted to use these next few weeks to evaluate where the team is at ahead of the Feb. 6 trade deadline.

If Kuminga is out of the mix, gauging how far this current group can go becomes indubitably more complicated.

“For sure,” Andrew Wiggins said when asked if the past two weeks have been the best he’s seen Kuminga play. “Just offensively, I know that offensively it’s there. He’s making good decisions, he’s scoring at all three levels. Defensively, I feel like he took a big jump, too. He’s been guarding — on-ball, off-ball. You see the growth every game, he’s getting better and better.”

Kuminga scored 13 points against the Grizzlies before suffering the injury, although he also committed four turnovers. Before Saturday, he 24.3 points and eight rebounds in his prior six games. Kerr repeatedly described the stretch as a “breakthrough” — and a different one than previous flashes, he added.

After Kuminga exited on Saturday, Wiggins stepped up in a major way. He scored two points in the first half before erupting for 18 in the third quarter, sinking six straight shots. Grizzlies wing Desmond Bane lit a fire under him after he rammed through him for an and-1. Wiggins tried to return the favor on a fast-break opportunity only to whiff and trip out of bounds.

But after that, he was as aggressive offensively as he’s been all season.

“We definitely need that Wiggs because he’s one of the few guys who can actually get to the hole with that athleticism with that type of athleticism,” Green said. “We definitely need that aggressive Wiggs. And we’ll stay on him about being aggressive.”

Kyle Anderson, who was out of the rotation for the past couple weeks, played 21 minutes and made a strong two-way impact down the stretch while Golden State held off the Grizzlies. Anderson does not play anything remotely like Kuminga, but can guard up in size better and has always been an excellent passer.

Both Wiggins and Anderson project to be key in treading water without Kuminga — for however long he’s out.

“There was a reason we signed him and Buddy (Hield),” Kerr said. “We added a lot of depth for this reason, to be able to withstand some injuries. It’s going to be tough. JK has been playing the best basketball of his career these last couple weeks. So we’re going to miss him, but Kyle will fill in well.”

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Published on January 04, 2025 22:06

Kuminga injured as Warriors earn spirited win over Memphis

SAN FRANCISCO — The numbers that might define the direction of the Warriors might be easy as one, two, three. And they have nothing to do with two or three-pointers.

Jonathan Kuminga left Saturday night’s game with a right ankle sprain. If it’s a Grade 1 strain, he’ll be back on the court in no time. If it’s Grade 2, returning before January’s over might become questionable. A worst-case scenario Grade 3 high ankle sprain would put his season in jeopardy.

The Warriors won’t immediately know how severe Kuminga’s injury is, but the most encouraging sign is that he didn’t need assistance while hopping off the court and into the trainer’s room after rolling his ankle.

The Warriors wanted to use the next few weeks to see how their current group — and trimmed rotation — would look after a tumultuous start to the season. They started 12-3 but fell all the way to .500 at the end of December.

Now, if Kuminga’s sprained ankle sidelines him for a large portion of January, gauging the roster will be significantly more complicated.

The evaluation period continued Saturday, with the Warriors avenging their 51-point defeat to Memphis with a 121-113 victory at Chase Center. Golden State made 23 of 43 3-pointers — with six players making at least three — and forced 23 turnovers.

Dennis Schroder (17 points, nine assists) had his best game as a Warrior and Andrew Wiggins scored 18 of his 24 points in a key third-quarter stretch. Golden State made 14 more 3s than Memphis to overcome a massive rebounding deficit (43 to 29).

Neither Steph Curry nor Ja Morant suited up, but each team played with passion. The game included three technical fouls and a flagrant. The Warriors are now 5-2 in games without Curry this season.

The Warriors hit their first four 3-pointers and started 8-for-14 from behind the arc. Their first two-point bucket came almost 11 minutes into the game on a Jonathan Kuminga left-handed drive.

Despite the hot shooting and an early 12-2 lead, the Warriors never created real separation.

Pat Spencer — playing because Steph Curry and Brandin Podziemski were unavailable — guarded his brother, Cam, and hit a one-legged teardrop with one second left in the quarter. But Jake LaRavia rattled home a half-court buzzer beater to close a 30-29 frame.

Lindy Waters III then scored eight unanswered points. The Warriors held the Grizzlies scoreless for the first three minutes of the second quarter, deflecting passes and cutting off driving lanes. The Warriors stretched their lead to 11, but Memphis responded with an 18-6 run to pull ahead.

With 2:27 left in the half, Kuminga hobbled to the locker room. He’d just hit his third 3-pointer of the night and tried to contest a shot in the paint, but landed in a crowded sea of legs.

The past two weeks have been Kuminga’s best stretch of his career. Over his last six games entering Saturday night, he averaged 24.3 points and eight rebounds. He played well both with and without the ball, and on both ends of the court, leading to head coach Steve Kerr repeatedly describing the span as a “breakthrough.”

Kuminga got ruled out for the rest of the game at halftime and finished with 13 points and four turnovers.

Without Kuminga, Andrew Wiggins stepped up. After scoring two points in the first half, Wiggins poured in 18 points in the third quarter by hitting six straight shots — including two 3s. Buddy Hield also chipped in, breaking his slump by making four of his seven triples.

Draymond Green started the fourth quarter with a hard foul on Zach Edey that got upgraded to a flagrant. The two have history, with Green calling the rookie center “soft” on his podcast earlier this year.

The next defensive possession, after nailing a 3, Green immediately picked up a technical foul. It was a chippy, tightly contested game, as so many matchups between the Warriors and Grizzlies have been.

Schroder slashed inside for a tough and-1 finish, but got slapped with a technical for taunting his victim on the ground.

Leading by five with 2:25 left, Waters sank a catch-and-shoot 3 — his fourth of the night. Then Wiggins skied for a one-handed slam, icing the game with a minute left.

Green raised both hands and waved goodbye to the Grizzlies’ bench. After getting embarrassed in Memphis earlier this year, the Warriors had an answer.

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Published on January 04, 2025 20:01

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