Curry sets late-career scoring record in Warriors' OT win over Magic

Stephen Curry scored 41 points on Saturday night, setting a new career record for 40-point games played after age 35. His performance helped the Golden State Warriors defeat the Orlando Magic 126-119 in overtime at Chase Center.

Curry finished with 17 points in the final seven minutes of regulation. The Warriors trailed by six points in the fourth quarter after Orlando erased a 16-point halftime deficit. Curry made two deep three-pointers, a layup, and two free throws in the final two minutes and 21 seconds. He finished regulation with a difficult running shot with 25 seconds remaining to put Golden State up by two.

Jamal Cain of the Magic tipped in a layup with two seconds left to force extra time. Warriors head coach Steve Kerr benched Curry at the start of overtime to manage his minutes. The backup unit, including rookie Yaxel Lendeborg who scored 23 points, built a five-point lead for Golden State.

Kerr returned Curry to the court to close the game. The star added two floaters and one free throw in overtime to reach his season high. The victory marked the Warriors' seventh consecutive win, following a 0-3 start to the season. Only the 1950-51 Boston Celtics have achieved such a turnaround in league history.

This marks Curry's second 40-point game in November and his 77th in an 18-year career. He has now recorded 16 such games since turning 35, surpassing Michael Jordan's 12 and LeBron James' 15. Kerr described Curry's durability as remarkable, citing his strength training and conditioning.

Curry noted that his continued high level of play comes from consistent effort despite injuries. He said he feeds off the ability to reach peak performance, especially in winning situations. Kerr praised the 37-year-old for earning his longevity through fitness and good genes.

The Warriors now hold a 7-3 record after this victory. The win cements their position in the league race as they continue their recent winning streak.