In 2019, the Golden State Warriors completed one of the most remarkable seasons in modern sports history, setting an NBA record with 73 wins in the regular season. The team combined veteran leadership with sharp shooting to redefine pace-and-space basketball.
That historic campaign laid the foundation for a repeat championship run in 2015, even as 2019 brought new challenges, roster changes, and evolving expectations in a league racing toward the new decade.
| Season | Team | League | Regular Season Wins | Playoff Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015-16 | Golden State Warriors | NBA | 73 | NBA Finals (lost) |
| 2016-17 | Golden State Warriors | NBA | 67 | NBA Champions |
| 2017-18 | Golden State Warriors | NBA | 58 | NBA Champions |
| 2018-19 | Golden State Warriors | NBA | 57 | Western Conference Finals |
| 2021-22 | Golden State Warriors | NBA | 53 | NBA Champions |
Historic 73-Win Season in Detail
Key Performers and Milestones
The 2015-16 campaign featured Stephen Curry breaking the single-season three-point record, while Klay Thompson and Draymond Green anchored a defense that thrived in switch-heavy schemes.
Drafted prospects like Jordan Poole added depth off the bench, and role players such as Shaun Livingston and Andre Iguodala sustained a high-octane rotation that rarely dipped in intensity.
2018-19 Season Performance
Standings and Playoff Run
Despite a slight dip to 57 wins, the Warriors remained the league’s most consistent franchise, cruising through the Western Conference before a hard-fought seven-game loss to the eventual champion Toronto Raptors in the semifinals.
Head Coach Steve Kerr adjusted lineups to manage minutes, and the team leaned on veteran poise to secure home victories in crucial playoff moments.
Tactical Evolution and Roster Changes
Offense and Defensive Schemes
Golden State continued to prioritize ball movement, off-ball screens, and transition three-pointers, forcing defenses to guard the perimeter full-time.
Defensive adjustments highlighted increased switching, tighter on-ball pressure, and smarter rotations to counter emerging young stars across the league.
Legacy and Long-Term Impact
Influence on Future Drafts and Rosters
The 2015-16 breakout season reshaped salary-cap strategies league-wide, accelerating investments in spacing specialists and versatile defenders.
Suberity drafts saw teams prioritize athletic wings, switchable defenders, and high-IQ role players who could thrive in motion systems inspired by Golden State.
Key Takeaways and Strategy Highlights
- Prioritize ball movement and off-ball screens to generate open threes.
- Invest in switchable defenders who can guard multiple positions.
- Balance veteran leadership with high-potential draft picks.
- Manage minutes strategically to sustain excellence across a long season.
- Leverage analytics to optimize shot selection and defensive schemes.
FAQ
Reader questions
How did the Warriors perform in the playoffs after their 73-win season?
They reached the NBA Finals but lost to the Cleveland Cavaliers in seven games.
Which opponent ended their 2015-16 season?
The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Warriors in Game 7 of the Finals.
What major roster change occurred heading into 2016-17?
The Warriors acquired Kevin Durant in free agency, reshaping their championship window.
Did the 2015-16 Warriors win any individual awards that season?
Yes, Stephen Curry earned his first NBA Most Valuable Player award.