Rivers delivers message to Clippers

‘Back up to no one,’ coach commands after another injury and loss to Warriors. ‘I just want fighters,’ he says.

Even in the face of adversity, despite all the Clippers’ health issues, coach Doc Rivers demanded that his team stand tall.

The Clippers had just lost to the Golden State Warriors by 16 points Saturday — trailing by as many as 30 in losing to the defending NBA champions for the 12th straight time — when a defiant Rivers entered the locker room.

“You back up to no one — ever!” Rivers told reporters when asked what his message to the players was.

He sensed some easing up beThere cause the Clippers lost Blake Griffin to a concussion in the first quarter. He sensed some doubt because they also were without Danilo Gallinari (glute), Austin Rivers (ankle), Milos Teodosic (foot) and Patrick Beverley (knee surgery).

But Rivers wanted his players to continue to compete no matter the circumstances.

“We know we got all these injuries,” the coach said. “So, you step in and don’t back up. And if they’re better, let them be better. But make them be better.”

Rivers paused and then added: “Overall, I just want fighters right now. And that’s what we’re going to have to have.”

The Clippers (17-21) have mostly been fighters through these tempestuous times and sit just two games out of a playoff spot. The question is how long can they keep up the fight and stay in the race?

“Listen, they are human,” Rivers said. “And mentally … you know, the last three games you lose Austin, Milos and Blake right in front of them, and mentally that affects you. There’s no doubt about that, especially when you lose them during the game, where they go out during the games. So clearly that has an effect.

“But, I think they’ll be back to who we’ve been all year by next game. I thought [Saturday] got them. But we’ll be back.”

Rivers has had help from veterans DeAndre Jordan and Lou Williams in getting his message across.

There was a moment in the third quarter when rookie Jawun Evans got lost on defense and then fouled Stephen Curry on a three-point attempt.

Jordan pulled Evans aside and lit into his young teammate. But before Curry shot his three free throws, Jordan patted Evans on the back.

was a moment in the third quarter when Williams got into the face of rookie Sindarius Thornwell for a missed defensive assignment. Williams then patted Thornwell on the back.

“Lou and DJ, yeah, they’re coaching with me,” Rivers said. “They really are.”

TONIGHT

VS. ATLANTA

When: 7:30. On the air: TV: Prime Ticket; Radio: 570. Update: The Clippers have defeated the Hawks three straight times and four of the last five. The Hawks will be playing at Staples Center for the second night in a row. Atlanta lost to the Lakers 132-113 on Sunday.