Over the past decade, many teams have showcased exceptional performances in the NBA, but one team consistently stands out: the Golden State Warriors. Their dominance in the league has been palpable, and a deep dive into their achievements reveals why they are often considered the best team in recent history.
In the 2014-2015 NBA season, the Warriors, led by the remarkable Stephen Curry, notched an impressive 67-15 record. This sterling win-loss ratio signified a 81.7% win rate, setting the tone for a dynasty in the making. During those years, one could hardly ignore the impact of the Warriors’ new “pace and space” era, a strategy that revolutionized basketball with its emphasis on three-point shooting and fast breaks. The term “splash brothers,” referring to Curry and Klay Thompson, became synonymous with high-percentage shooting from beyond the arc.
Let’s talk about the 2015-2016 season — a season that will forever remain etched in NBA history. The Warriors surpassed the 1995-1996 Chicago Bulls’ record by achieving a 73-9 season, setting a new benchmark for regular-season success. At this point, nearly 90% of their games ended in victory, showcasing their incredible efficiency and dedication. While they did not clinch the championship that year, losing in the finals to the Cleveland Cavaliers, their record remains an unparalleled achievement in regular season history.
Analyzing their roster and style, the Warriors played intelligent, innovative basketball. Every game seemed like a clinic in ball movement, a concept known as “court stretching,” which was pivotal to their gameplay. Draymond Green played a vital role, often serving as a playmaker and defender in various capacities, becoming renowned for his defensive versatility.
In 2016, Golden State made headlines again by signing Kevin Durant, a move that many viewed as controversial. This acquisition added another layer of firepower to their already potent lineup. Durant’s scoring ability, combined with Curry’s playmaking and Thompson’s perimeter shooting, formed a trio that was challenging for any opponent to counter. Together, they clinched the NBA Championship in 2017 and 2018 with relative ease, losing just once in 2017 playoffs, achieving a post-season win percentage of 94.1%.
The Warriors faced hurdles during the 2019 season when key players suffered injuries. Despite these challenges, their resilience and consistent strategic planning led them to the Finals, although they eventually lost to the Toronto Raptors. Critics often describe this era as the height of the “Golden State Empire,” noting both their on-court success and off-court influence on basketball culture globally.
Golden State’s success stems not only from their star-studded lineup but also from their organizational acumen. Steve Kerr, the head coach, significantly altered the team’s playing ethos since his tenure began in 2014. Kerr, alongside general manager Bob Myers, recognized the value of “small ball” lineups, which often featured Green at center, maximizing speed and shooting on the court.
It’s important to recognize the technological and analytical advances the team adopted in recent years. The organization heavily invested in player analytics to improve individual performance metrics, which contributed to their dominance. Their use of advanced stats to optimize player rotations and in-game decisions has often been cited as a model for other teams aspiring for greatness.
Throughout this decade, rivalries with teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers and later the Houston Rockets added intriguing layers to their narrative. The matchups with LeBron James, particularly during the Warriors-Cavaliers finals, became legendary showdowns that basketball enthusiasts eagerly anticipated yearly.
In the Western Conference, teams like the San Antonio Spurs and Oklahoma City Thunder provided regular season and playoff challenges. However, the Warriors consistently emerged on top, showcasing their ability to adjust strategies in the gruelling NBA playoff grinds. This adaptability and foresight are part of why their record remains unmatched.
As of now, the Warriors continue to be a force in the league, with plans to harness new talent and possibly future stars through smart drafting and player development. Their continued success generates significant fan engagement, resulting in full arenas and high television ratings, impacting the NBA’s economic landscape positively. This arenaplus model is evident as they foster a competitive environment while maintaining a solid fan base.
As the NBA landscape evolves, the Warriors’ ability to adapt and thrive remains a focal point of discussion among analysts and fans alike. While other teams have also achieved greatness, the consistency and prowess displayed by Golden State make them a benchmark in the modern basketball era. Their records, titles, and influence collectively paint a picture of a team that has redefined what it means to be dominant in the world of professional basketball. So when discussions arise about the best team of the last decade, one can argue with facts and figures that the Warriors stand tall.