Rockets Force Decisive Game 7 Against Warriors

SAN FRANCISCO: The Houston Rockets secured a 115-107 victory over the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center on Friday, evening the series at 3-3.

This triumph sets the stage for a pivotal game seven to determine which team will advance to the next stage of the competition.

Veteran guard Fred VanVleet delivered an outstanding performance, amassing 29 points, eight assists, and eight rebounds. His efforts provided crucial stability for the Rockets during key moments of the match.

Alperen Şengün also made a significant contribution, achieving a double-double with 21 points and 14 rebounds over 37 minutes of play.

Coach Ime Udoka lauded VanVleet, emphasising the importance of seasoned players during the postseason. He noted that veterans like VanVleet understand the heightened stakes of playoff basketball, contrasting it with the sometimes monotonous nature of the regular season.

Coach’s Comments

“I believe that veterans especially recognise the urgency of the playoffs, in contrast to the regular season which can, at times, lack intensity,” Udoka stated regarding VanVleet. “They often conserve their energy for critical moments. Fred’s recent shooting form hasn’t always been ideal, but he has shown excellent stretches. He brings championship experience, and that’s exactly what we anticipate from him.”

The Rockets established an early advantage, outscoring the Warriors 25-21 in the opening quarter and maintaining their lead despite a third-quarter push from Golden State. Houston’s bench players were impactful, with Tari Eason contributing eight points and two rebounds in 16 minutes.

Amen Thompson added 14 points and seven rebounds, while Steven Adams provided valuable veteran presence and defensive stability in the paint, scoring 17 points and securing five rebounds.

For the Golden State Warriors, this home defeat is disappointing, particularly after their earlier efforts to level the series. They now face the challenge of winning game seven on the road against a determined Rockets team riding a wave of momentum.

As the series stands tied, attention now turns to Houston, where the decisive game seven will take place. Both teams are gearing up for a high-stakes battle to keep their playoff hopes alive.