Steve Kerr delivers a bold message after Warriors’ unexpected win

Steve Kerr experienced a different kind of night in the NBA. With Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green sidelined, the Warriors pulled off a surprising 99-94 win against the Cavaliers. The spotlight was on Pat Spencer, who in his first start scored 19 points and added seven assists.

According to Essentiallysports, the coach didn’t hesitate to highlight the guard’s progress. Steve Kerr pointed out that Pat Spencer has improved his outside shot and, although “he’ll never be Steph,” he has become a real threat for opposing defenses.

Spencer’s impact under Kerr’s watch

Steve Kerr emphasized that Spencer’s presence brought calm and order to Golden State’s offense. The guard punished every gap Cleveland left and fired up his teammates with three clutch threes. The bench erupted after each play, showing the trust the group has in him.

The coach even joked with a comment that drew smiles in the press room. Steve Kerr made it clear that Pat Spencer earned the locker room’s respect. For him, having a player who brings energy every night and in every practice is a rare luxury.

The story behind the new hero

Steve Kerr recalled that Spencer joined the Warriors in 2023-24 after an unusual path. The former Loyola lacrosse star chose basketball, fought through the G-League, and finally found his place in the NBA. That perseverance, according to Kerr, explains why he has become a key piece today.

Steve Kerr on Pat Spencer: “His coach realized that Pat is that mother fu****. That became clear. Sorry. Am I allowed to say that?” pic.twitter.com/msJj0KlrkX

— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) December 7, 2025

Pat Spencer’s performance not only filled Curry’s absence but also helped the Warriors snap a rough stretch of seven losses in nine games. Steve Kerr stressed that his team showed character in pressure moments and that the win reflected collective fight.

A win that gives Golden State breathing room

Steve Kerr knows the season still holds big challenges, but the victory in Cleveland brings confidence. Donovan Mitchell tried to rescue the Cavs with 29 points, yet the Warriors’ defense and Spencer’s closing plays made the difference.

The coach concluded that nights like this prove how much the group has grown. Even without their stars, Steve Kerr believes the team’s competitive identity remains intact.