With Stephen Curry sidelined the last two games due to a knee injury, the Golden State Warriors needed someone to step up. Enter Pat Spencer - a name that might not be on every fan’s radar, but after Thursday night’s win over the Phoenix Suns, it should be.
Spencer, filling in for the injured Curry, didn’t just hold down the fort - he lit it up. The 29-year-old guard, currently on a two-way contract, made his fifth start of the season and delivered a first-half shooting clinic that helped spark the Warriors’ comeback win.
He knocked down five of his seven three-point attempts in the opening half, giving Golden State a 59-55 lead heading into the break. By the end of the night, he’d gone 6-for-11 from deep - a new career high, and a clear sign that his confidence is catching up to his skill set.
And here’s the kicker: that breakout performance came in what could be his final game under his current two-way deal. Unless the Warriors convert his contract within the next 36 hours, Spencer won’t be eligible to suit up for Saturday’s clash with the Lakers in Los Angeles.
That timing adds a layer of urgency - and intrigue - to what’s already been a feel-good story. Spencer has made the most of every opportunity Steve Kerr has given him this season, showing poise, efficiency, and a surprising scoring punch.
He’s averaging 5.8 points and 2.9 assists while shooting a scorching 43.1% from three. Those are solid numbers for any rotation guard, let alone one who’s still technically not on a full NBA deal.
What makes Spencer’s rise even more remarkable is his unconventional path. Before he was draining threes at Chase Center, he was dominating on the lacrosse field.
A former standout at Loyola, Spencer was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2019 Premier Lacrosse League draft. But instead of sticking with the sport where he made his name, he pivoted - betting on himself to make it in basketball.
Now, that bet is starting to pay off.
At 6-foot-2, Spencer brings a steady hand to the backcourt. He’s a smart ball handler, a willing passer, and when the moment calls for it - like it did against Phoenix - he’s not afraid to let it fly.
That kind of aggression, paired with his efficiency, makes him more than just a stopgap while Curry recovers. He’s proving he belongs.
With Curry’s status still uncertain, the Warriors have a decision to make. But based on what we’ve seen - especially on Thursday night - converting Spencer’s deal feels less like a gamble and more like a no-brainer.