OAKLAND, Calif., March 17 (UPI) -- Monta Ellis had 24 points and six assists Friday night to help Golden State belt the Minnesota Timberwolves, 106-86.
Golden State, which had a four-point lead after the first quarter, basically eliminated any suspense by building a 56-43 halftime advantage.
Minnesota could not mount a major threat in the second half.
Stephen Jackson scored 15 points; Jason Richardson had 14 points, seven rebounds and eight assists; and Andris Biedrins had nine points and 12 rebounds for the improving Warriors, who have won five of their last six games to maintain their hold on the final playoff spot in the Western Conference.
Randy Foye led Minnesota with 20 points, four rebounds, and seven assists.
Kevin Garnett had 19 points and 13 rebounds; while Craig Smith and Ricky Davis scored 10 points apiece for the Timberwolves, who have lost their last nine road games and three of four overall.
