Warriors vs Timberwolves: Minnesota Beats Golden State 127-117 in NBA 2025-26
The Warriors vs Timberwolves matchup on Friday, March 13, 2026, delivered a decisive result in the NBA 2025-26 regular season. Minnesota defeated Golden State 127-117 at the Chase Center in San Francisco, a venue that seats more than 18,000 fans. Tip-off came at 10:00 p.m. ET, and Minnesota controlled most of the night with balanced scoring and strong defensive stretches.
Minnesota entered the game in 6th place in the Western Conference under coach Chris Finch. The team needed momentum after a three-game losing streak, including a 153-128 loss to the Clippers. Meanwhile, Golden State, coached by Steve Kerr, sat 9th in the West, trying to protect its play-in position. The Timberwolves quickly imposed their rhythm and built a large early lead. By halftime, Minnesota led 69-48, setting the tone for the rest of the game.
Warriors vs Timberwolves Game Summary
Minnesota dominates early momentum
The Warriors vs Timberwolves contest tilted toward Minnesota from the first quarter. The Timberwolves played aggressive transition offense and controlled the paint through Rudy Gobert.
Minnesota opened a strong scoring run and forced turnovers. Golden State struggled to create efficient shots without several key rotation players. By halftime, the Timberwolves had built a 21-point advantage. That early control proved decisive.
Minnesota maintained the pressure in the third quarter. The Timberwolves extended their lead to 100-87 by the end of the period. Golden State pushed late, but the deficit remained too large to overcome.
Quarter progress overview:
- Halftime: Timberwolves 69 – Warriors 48
- End of 3rd Quarter: Timberwolves 100 – Warriors 87
- Final Score: Timberwolves 127 – Warriors 117
Warriors vs Timberwolves Key Players and Lineups
Starting five and players to watch
The Warriors vs Timberwolves matchup featured interesting lineup combinations on both sides. Minnesota relied on its core defensive identity, while Golden State used a mixed veteran lineup.
Minnesota Timberwolves starting lineup
- Donte DiVincenzo
- Jaden McDaniels
- Anthony Edwards
- Rudy Gobert
- Julius Randle
Golden State Warriors starting lineup
- Brandin Podziemski
- Kristaps Porzingis
- De’Anthony Melton
- Gui Santos
- Al Horford
Gobert, the 33-year-old French center standing 2.16 meters, anchored Minnesota’s interior defense. His presence limited Golden State’s interior scoring opportunities. On the Warriors’ side, Gui Santos, the 23-year-old Brazilian forward, remained a key developmental piece for Golden State’s rotation.
Warriors vs Timberwolves Team Context
The Warriors vs Timberwolves result had clear playoff implications. Minnesota entered the night holding the 6th seed, the final direct playoff position in the Western Conference. The team faced pressure from both the Phoenix Suns and the Los Angeles Clippers.
Golden State’s situation looked more unstable. The Warriors occupied 9th place, which places teams in the play-in tournament zone. Portland and Memphis remain close in the standings, making every loss costly.
Minnesota’s win stopped its three-game losing streak. Golden State, however, extended its own slump and now faces increased pressure in the standings.
Warriors vs Timberwolves Recent Head-to-Head Results
Recent meetings between these teams show a competitive rivalry. Minnesota has won several important games, including last year’s playoff series.
| Date | Result |
|---|---|
| Jan 2026 | Timberwolves 108 – Warriors 83 |
| Jan 2026 | Warriors 111 – Timberwolves 85 |
| Dec 2025 | Warriors 120 – Timberwolves 127 |
| May 2025 Playoffs | Timberwolves 121 – Warriors 110 (Series 4-1) |
| 2024 | Warriors 113 – Timberwolves 101 |
Minnesota’s 4-1 playoff series victory in May 2025 remains a defining moment in the rivalry. The March 2026 result reinforced Minnesota’s competitive edge.
What the Warriors vs Timberwolves Result Means
The Warriors vs Timberwolves game showed Minnesota’s ability to recover from adversity. After three straight losses, the team delivered a strong offensive performance with 127 points on the road.
Golden State now faces increased pressure in the Western Conference standings. Maintaining the 9th seed play-in position will require improved consistency and healthier rotations.
