Superstar Curry lifts Warriors in return

Golden State star Stephen Curry scored 20 of his 31 points in a dazzling third quarter to propel the Warriors to a 123-114 NBA victory over the Utah Jazz on Saturday.

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Warriors guard Stephen Curry reacts during the third quarter against the Jazz at Chase Center.

(REUTERS)

Curry, back after missing a game with a sprained left ankle, had just nine points in a first half that saw the Warriors trailing 65-58 at the break.

But he exploded in the third period, when Golden State outscored Utah 42-31 to take control, never trailing in the final frame.

"We played great defence for most of that quarter, which gave us some transition opportunities, too, and I was able to get out and run," Curry said. "Thankfully shots went in and gave us a lot of momentum."

Curry made six of 12 three-point attempts and handed out five assists with one steal.

Jimmy Butler, back after missing one game because of illness, and Quinten Post added 15 points apiece for the Warriors, who had been blown out on their home floor on Friday by Oklahoma City with Curry, Butler and Draymond Green all sidelined.