Timberwolves Take 3-1 Lead Over Warriors in Western Semifinals

The Minnesota Timberwolves took a 2-1 lead in their Western Conference Semifinals series against the Golden State Warriors by winning Game 3 with a 102-97 score. Anthony Edwards led the Timberwolves with 36 points, including a crucial go-ahead 3-pointer late in the game, while Julius Randle contributed a triple-double with 24 points, 12 assists, and 10 rebounds. The Warriors, missing star guard Stephen Curry due to a strained left hamstring, struggled to maintain their usual offensive rhythm despite strong performances from Jimmy Butler, who scored 33 points, and Jonathan Kuminga, who added 30 off the bench. Draymond Green, a key defensive player for Golden State, fouled out in the fourth quarter, further weakening the Warriors' defense down the stretch. Minnesota's ability to capitalize on the Warriors' fouls and missed shots, combined with timely scoring from Edwards and Randle, proved decisive. The Warriors now face a must-win situation in Game 4 to avoid being one loss away from elimination.