The series between Houston and Golden State seemed to be nearing its end, but the Rockets refused to go down without a fight. In their best performance of the postseason, the Texan team signed a solid 131-116 victory, staying alive and sending the series back to San Francisco. They did it with defensive intensity, offensive execution and an attitude that reflected that no one in that locker room wanted their season to end just yet.
Defense And Energy From The First Minute
Houston understood from the opening kickoff what was at stake. There was no room for mistakes or distractions. Defensive intensity was key to make the difference early on. As the Warriors tried to find rhythm, they ran into a physical and disciplined wall time and time again. Stephen Curry had no respite, constantly pressured, forced to take uncomfortable shots and without space to generate the game he usually dominates.
Amen Thompson, at only 21 years old, offered one of the most complete defensive performances of these playoffs. Not only was he relentless in scoring, he also contributed 25 points that gave balance to his presence on both sides of the court. The young guard showed why he is already being talked about as one of the future great perimeter defenders in the league.
But it was not an individual effort. Tidy, aggressive team defense saw Golden State finish the first half with just 49 points. That suffocating pressure not only stopped opposing starters, it also forced coach Steve Kerr to empty his bench before the end of the third quarter, a rare occurrence in a playoff game.
VanVleet Experienced Guide And Temple
In the midst of a young team, Fred VanVleet again showed why his arrival was so important for these Rockets. The veteran took control of the game from the start, directing the offense with intelligence and setting the pace of the game. His first half was almost perfect: he scored points with ease and gave security to his teammates in every possession.
VanVleet finished with 26 points, but beyond the stat sheet, it was his calmness in key moments that made the difference. Every time Golden State tried to respond, he had a solution, whether it was with a pass, penetration or simply slowing the game down so as not to lose control.
During the week, the point guard talked about maintaining confidence and not letting previous losses cloud the collective effort. That message seemed to resonate with the group, which played with determination, without hesitation, even when the Warriors closed the gap in the fourth quarter.
Brooks, Green And Sengun Add On Both Sides
Houston's performance was rounded out because it did not rely on just two or three players. Dillon Brooks contributed 24 points and was key in tense moments. Always intense on defense, he was also active on offense, making good decisions despite not being good from the three-point line. His competitive nature was contagious to the rest of the team.
Jalen Green had a more discreet game in terms of numbers, but his energy was important to keep the tempo high. The shooting guard helped in the defensive pressure and was more mature in his decision making with the ball. He contributed when necessary and knew how to give up the spotlight when others were more on fire.
Alperen Sengun, for his part, was once again that silent but effective axis. With a presence in the paint and a good reading of the game, he held the Rockets in several important defensive sequences. Moreover, his post-game comment ("Nobody wants to go home") sums up the spirit of a team that refuses to give up.
On this Labor Day Holiday, we hope the Genie De La Lampara has correctly understood your wishes.
🗓️ 🧞♂️ pic.twitter.com/rmmVT13IX4- Betcris (@Betcris) May 2, 2025
The Series Returns to San Francisco With Another Storyline
What looked like a quiet closing for the Warriors has turned into an unexpected challenge. Houston managed to extend the series and now prepares to visit the Chase Center with the goal of tying it. It won't be easy, but if they repeat the level shown at home, they have arguments to put up a fight.
Golden State, which has eliminated Houston several times in the last decade, knows it cannot be complacent. Although they still lead 3-2, they missed a clear opportunity to close out the series and now face the pressure of closing out at home.
The last time the Rockets came back from 3-1 down was in 2015 against the Clippers. It won't be easy to repeat that feat, but this young group, guided by VanVleet and coached by Ime Udoka, already showed that they are willing to fight to the end. Today, in San Francisco, it will be known if this story takes an unexpected turn or if it was just a last shot of pride.
The truth is that the Rockets played like they had no tomorrow. And with that approach, anything can happen.
