The Power of Hustle: How Gui Santos Carried the Warriors in Detroit
Gui Santos has often been the 14th man in a rotation that occasionally stretched to 13 players. However, on this night, injuries and absences forced him into action. With key players like Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody, Brandin Podziemski, Gary Payton II, and Andrew Wiggins sidelined, Santos knew his opportunity had arrived.
Emerging from the Shadows
Santos entered the game with just over three minutes left in the first quarter, replacing a struggling Warriors lineup. Within seconds, he tied the score with a corner three-pointer. This was no fluke; Santos had spent countless hours honing his three-point shot. His efforts paid off as he added two more three-pointers at the start of the second quarter, propelling the Warriors to a commanding lead.
Santos' performance wasn't limited to scoring. His hustle plays—scrap rebounds, sneaky steals, and loose-ball wins—were pivotal. These intangibles underscored the importance of effort beyond the box score. As Coach Kerr noted, "This game is about so much more than whether you make a shot or miss a shot." It's these little battles that win games.
A Night Defined by Effort
In the third quarter, Santos exemplified his relentless spirit. After Steph Curry missed an open look, Santos fought through multiple defenders to tip the ball away from Isaiah Stewart, securing a crucial offensive rebound. Moments later, he outmaneuvered Tobias Harris and Simone Fontecchio, tipping another loose ball to Hield for a successful three-pointer. These unsung moments were the backbone of the Warriors' victory.
Kerr emphasized the significance of these plays, reflecting on their previous loss to the Miami Heat. "It’s losing all those little battles," he said. "Not rotating, not boxing out, not making the extra pass." Against the Pistons, Santos won these battles, earning 26 minutes of playing time—a testament to his impact.
Beyond the Box Score
While Santos' shooting prowess shone, it was his defensive contributions that truly stood out. He disrupted plays, secured rebounds, and consistently made the right decisions. His versatility allowed the Warriors to weather Curry's off night, where the star struggled with a sprained thumb, finishing 5-of-21 overall and 2-of-14 from three-point range.
Draymond Green also praised Santos' effort, noting the beauty of physical play that sometimes goes unnoticed. "Officials allowed us to get into it tonight," Green remarked. "That’s what makes the game exciting."
The Future Awaits
Santos' performance against the Pistons showcased his readiness for bigger roles. With the Warriors' lineup still depleted, Santos is likely to see more playing time, particularly in the upcoming game against the Indiana Pacers. His ability to win the little battles will be crucial as the team aims to maintain momentum on this challenging road trip.
This game was more than just a win for the Warriors—it was a platform for Santos to prove his value. As Kerr aptly put it, "You get your chance, and you have to take advantage of it." Santos did just that, delivering a performance that will be remembered for its hustle and heart.
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