The San Diego Clippers (1-1) looked poised for another strong showing Friday night, but a late surge from the Stockton Kings (1-1) spoiled their effort as the Clippers fell 117-108 at home.
San Diego wasted no time asserting control, knocking down nearly 64% of its shots in a high-octane first quarter. Baldwin Jr. continued his hot streak from the previous game, scoring 13 points in the opening frame as the Clippers punished the Kings in the paint.
The momentum carried into the second quarter, where San Diego’s defense tightened the screws. The Clippers limited Stockton to just 16 points during that frame, forcing tough looks and dominating the glass. Baldwin Jr. and TyTy Washington Jr. led the offensive charge, both reaching double digits by halftime, while John Poulakidas provided quality minutes off the bench with seven points. San Diego went into the locker room up 61-47, seemingly in full command.
The Kings bounced back and came alive in the third. They chipped away at San Diego’s lead, pulling within two midway through the period. Baldwin Jr. and Jason Preston responded with clutch baskets to steady the Clippers. At the end of the third quarter, it was the Clippers’ lead 84–81 heading into the final stretch.
After running out of gas, the Kings took advantage and outscored San Diego by 12 in the fourth quarter, handing them the 9 point loss.
Baldwin Jr. led San Diego with 27 points and seven rebounds, continuing to anchor the team offensively. Los Angeles Clippers rookie Yanic Konan Niederhauser impressed with 18 points on 75% shooting, adding eight rebounds and four blocks. Washington Jr. stayed consistent with his second straight 20-point performance, while Preston nearly posted a triple-double with 12 points, eight boards, and five assists. Poulakidas also chipped in 13 off the bench.
Though the result stung, the Clippers showed plenty of positives — especially in the first half, where their ball movement, defensive effort, and interior scoring stood out.
As a note, this Clippers squad is definitely angled different than last year’s team. Though it’s only been two games, it’s trending towards the offense relying heavily on their frontcourt in Baldwin Jr. and Niederhouser. It seems they want to develop their two-way and assignment players. Then the veteran presence of Preston helps, and to assist in backcourt scoring comes from Washington Jr.
San Diego Clippers fall to Stockton 117-108. 1-1 on their opening road trip to start the season. Next up: home opener vs SLC Stars Nov. 14
— Jared Knobloch (@jknobloch8) November 10, 2025
As they head home to take on the Salt Lake City Stars in their home opener, it’ll be interesting to see how this team’s identity forms. They’ll play the Stars on November 14 at Frontwave Arena in Oceanside.