While the Golden State Warriors are in offseason mode, the hoops are heating up in the NBA’s Orlando Bubble. After only three days of action, the first 50 point performance has been officially recorded.
In 41 minutes against the Philadelphia 76ers, TJ Warren exploded for 53 points on 20-of-29 for the Indiana Pacers. Along with his career-high in scoring, The former Phoenix Suns record a career-best from beyond the arc, splashing 9-of-12 long-distance 3-pointers. Only four of Warren’s 53 points came from the free-throw line (4-of-4). The NC State product added four boards and three assists in the Pacers 127-121 victory.
After his 53-point performance against the Sixers, the five-year veteran joined a group that featured both of Golden State’s Splash Brothers. According to Stat Muse, Warren joined Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson as the only three players to record 50 or more points while taking fewer than free throw attempts since 2010.
Via @statmuse on Twitter:
In February of 2016, Golden State’s two-time Most Valuable Player dropped 51 points against the Washington Wizards on 19-of-28 from the field with 11 3-pointers. Curry added only 2-of-3 from the free-throw line in 36 minutes.
In 2018, Thompson torched the Chicago Bulls for 52 points in only 26 minutes for the Warriors. The five-time All-Star buried a career-high 14 3-pointers. On his way to 52 points, Thompson went 2-of-2 from the free-throw line.
Watch highlights from Warren’s 53-point effort via YouTube:
The Pacers will have the opportunity to build off Warren’s career performance on Monday, Aug. 3, against the Washington Wizards.
