Ty Lue praises the team's resilience for securing two narrow victories on the road

After controlling most of the game against the Golden State Warriors, the Los Angeles Clippers found themselves in a bind as their 11-point lead was whittled to one, 101-100, late in the fourth quarter. However, the team didn’t waver and leaned on one another, pulling off gritty plays down the stretch to secure the 112-104 win.

After the game, Clippers head coach Ty Lue praised his team’s resilience and character, noting that they could have easily folded under the pressure of such a close game on the road.

Have one another’s back

Playing the second game of a back-to-back is never easy. Aside from battling a tough opponent who was shooting lights out, the Clippers also had to deal with fatigue following their tough victory over the Denver Nuggets the previous night.

Despite these challenges, the team stuck together and showed great chemistry on both ends of the court. Teammates constantly communicated, made selfless plays, and picked each other up when needed—things that weren’t lost on Lue.

“I think we got the right intent. Our hearts are in the right place. No matter who's playing, we come out to win. You see everyone on the bench cheering for one another, and that's what it's about,” Lue said after the game.

“I thought Kris Dunn really changed the game tonight defensively. Guys were happy to see him do that. When you have the right intent and your heart's in the right place, you play good basketball,” Ty continued. “Winning two of three close games against very good teams meant a lot. It says a lot about our character and how we want to play and compete every night.”

Dunn was a picture of relentlessness against the Warriors, pursuing Steph Curry off screens, deflecting passes, and hustling to give the Clippers extra possessions. None was more crucial than the save he made late in the game that led to a three-pointer by Norman Powell.

Heading in the right direction

Clippers ace James Harden agreed with his coach’s assessment, saying he loves the team’s vibe wherein players are ready to contribute when called upon. From the top of the roster to the bottom, the Clippers are rooting for one another.

“I think the guys in this locker room are genuinely happy for each other, and that makes a big difference. It could get you five, six, or seven more wins a year that you might not normally get. It’s only three games in, but I like the direction we're heading,” Harden shared .

Related: Steve Kerr praises Clippers defensive effort against the Warriors