Before the play-in round, the Warriors are now the best-ranked team in NBA history (NBC Sports Bay Area).

Despite their strong finish to the NBA season in 2023–24, the Warriors were unable to guarantee a spot in the postseason in the competitive Western Conference.

Rather, Golden State defeated the Utah Jazz 123-116 at Chase Center on Sunday to close up the regular season at No. 10 in the West with a 46-36 record. The Warriors also created a small bit of history in the season’s final rankings, as they will now play the No. 9-seeded Sacramento Kings in the NBA Play-In Tournament.

Golden State is the greatest 10th-ranked team in NBA history, with a 56.1 winning percentage this season (h/t HoopsHype).

The fact that the Warriors have little to show for their dominance in the closing minutes proves that a top-heavy West is correct. Golden State’s 27-12 record since January 30th places them fourth in the NBA, behind the Oklahoma City Thunder (25-10), Denver Nuggets (24-10), and Boston Celtics (28-7), according to StatMuse.

Warriors coach Steve Kerr has previously expressed his gratitude to Golden State for fighting their way into the play-in round, regardless of the final rankings. He hopes the club makes the most of this opportunity, which wouldn’t have existed even five years ago.

And now that the Warriors’ route through the competition is established, Kerr thinks his tried-and-true squad is capable of a surprise run.

Following Sunday’s game, Kerr told reporters, “Well really, I’m happy with the way [the season] unfolded over the last couple of months.” “At the beginning of the season, we were a little lost and confused, but many guys really came through for us, both on and off the court and in the locker room.

“The players on this team have great chemistry, a strong bond, and they work hard for each other. I therefore have a very positive feeling about the future. I believe there’s still time for us to accomplish something exceptional.”

The Warriors have experienced both being written off and having your doubts disproved, like they did after winning the 2022 NBA Finals.

Now, Golden State, the most successful team to finish in 10th place in NBA history, will try to prove that positioning is meaningless.