SAN FRANCISCO — The Clippers closed out their preseason schedule with a hard-fought 106-103 victory over the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center on Friday night. The win gave head coach Tyronn Lue’s squad a 3-1 preseason record and saw the debut of Bradley Beal and may have given a glimpse of the future.

Beal Debut Shows Promise

Bradley Beal made his Clippers debut after recovering from a minor knee procedure performed in May, and while his 12 points on 6-of-9 shooting in limited minutes won’t make headlines, the efficiency, and rhythm were encouraging. The three-time All-Star converted his first bucket as a Clipper in the opening quarter, using an Ivica Zubac screen to knock down a mid-range jumper.

With Kawhi Leonard and James Harden both sitting out for rest, Beal had an opportunity to find his footing in Tyronn Lue’s system. His seamless integration with the second unit and ability to create quality looks bodes well for a squad that added Beal to address ballhandling and scoring needs following Norman Powell’s departure.

Sanders Steals the Show

While Bradley Beal’s long-awaited Clippers debut topped the headlines, it was rookie Kobe Sanders who stole the spotlight in San Francisco. The 50th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft exploded for a game-high 25 points on 8-of-15 shooting, including four three-pointers. Sanders matched Stephen Curry’s three-point total while logging a team-high 37 minutes, consistently making winning plays down the stretch to seal the victory.

The guard’s career performance concluded with clutch free throws in the final minutes and a driving layup that put the game away. Sanders displayed the confidence and poise of a veteran, not a player on a two-way contract making his mark in October, so the Clippers may have found a diamond in the rough in Sanders.

Niederhauser Makes His Case

First-round pick Yanic Konan Niederhauser continued his impressive preseason with a double-double performance, finishing with 13 points and a game-high 11 rebounds in 26 minutes. The 30th overall selection from Penn State showcased his rebounding ability with seven offensive boards, repeatedly giving the Clippers second-chance opportunities. The Swiss big man added three assists and two blocks, displaying the athletic versatility that made him attractive on draft night.

Niederhauser’s ability to impact the game without dominating possessions makes him an intriguing piece for a roster loaded with scoring options. His energy on the glass and rim protection could earn him rotation minutes behind Zubac and Brook Lopez if he continues to develop at this rate.

Why the Clippers Won

Los Angeles controlled the game from the opening tip, building a 31-21 first-quarter advantage behind strong defense and efficient offense. Derrick Jones Jr. sparked the early run with three steals and four points, while the Clippers forced 23 turnovers for the game, converting them into 24 points.

The Clippers shot 53.8 percent from the field in the first half and maintained their composure when Golden State mounted a fourth-quarter rally. The Clippers’ 49 rebounds and 30 assists showed unselfish, connected basketball that defined their preseason from start to finish.

Looking Ahead

The Clippers (3-1) completed a successful preseason that saw contributions from throughout the roster, and with their regular season opener against the Utah Jazz looming on October 22, Friday’s victory provided one final confirmation that this deeper, more versatile squad is ready to compete. 

The emergence of Sanders and Niederhauser, combined with Beal’s seamless integration on Friday night, gives Ty Lue options and flexibility as Los Angeles aims to return to championship contention in 2025-26.