Coming into Game 5 of their second-round playoff series against the Los Angeles Lakers, the season was on the line for the defending NBA champion Golden State Warriors.
Although some teams and players can fold in situations like this in the NBA playoffs, the Warriors and especially veteran forward Draymond Green flourished, putting on an inspiring display in front of their fans at the Chase Center.
Green seemed to turn back to the clock to start the game as he played with a different kind of energy, uplifting his teammates and resulting in the Warriors’ commanding lead that the Lakers couldn’t compete with.
Apparently, Green was inspired by someone in the stands, with his former Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo cheering on the veteran forward on Wednesday night.
Green said the following about Izzo taking time out of his busy schedule to come to watch him play in Game 5 in San Francisco via 95.7 The Game.
“When he’s in the building it just always lights a fire under me and I’m always appreciative of him taking the time out of his schedule,” Green said. “ Man, he got so many things going on. Fundraiser here, this thing there, recruiting here. Plus coaching a team and running a program. A family. Just a million things going on. I just try to show my appreciation before his presence with my effort when he does come.”
Draymond 🤝 coach Izzo pic.twitter.com/gyaBHRibYz
— 95.7 The Game (@957thegame) May 11, 2023
Green put on a show in Game 5, finishing with 20 points on 7-of-11 shooting to go along with 10 rebounds, four assists, two steals, and a block.
As a result of the inspired win on Wednesday, the Warriors have forced a Game 6 back in Los Angeles at Crypto.com Arena on Friday night.
The season will be on the line for the defending champions once again in Game 6, with Golden State needing to come away with another win to save their season and force a Game 7 back in San Francisco on Sunday.
NEXT: Draymond Green Makes A Strong Statement About Steve Kerr