The Golden State Warriors are moving on after defeating the Houston Rockets 103-89 in Game 7 on Sunday, May 4, 2025. This victory was crucial as it secured their place in the Western Conference semifinals, where they will face the Minnesota Timberwolves starting Tuesday. In a matchup that showcased the intensity of playoff basketball, the Warriors demonstrated resilience and skill, overcoming a series that had seen them lead 3-1 before the Rockets fought back to tie it.
Buddy Hield was the star of the night, leading the Warriors with an impressive 33 points, marking a career playoff high. His performance was pivotal, especially in the first half, where he scored 22 points, shooting an astounding 8-for-9 from the field and 6-for-7 from beyond the arc. Hield’s ability to find the basket was a game-changer, allowing Golden State to build a significant lead.
As the game unfolded, it became evident that experience played a crucial role. Stephen Curry, the Warriors' iconic shooter, started slowly, managing only three points in the first half. However, he exploded in the second half, contributing 19 points and finishing the game with 22 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists. His fourth-quarter surge was vital in keeping the Rockets at bay.
Jimmy Butler III also played a significant role, adding 20 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists. His presence on the court provided the necessary support for the Warriors, especially during critical moments. Draymond Green bounced back with a solid performance, scoring 16 points, showcasing his all-around game with 6 rebounds and 5 assists.
The Rockets, who had clawed their way back into the series with two consecutive wins, were led by Amen Thompson, who finished with 24 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 assists. His efforts were commendable, but ultimately, the Rockets fell short in their bid to advance. Alperen Sengun also made a notable contribution with 21 points, but the team struggled with their shooting, finishing the game with just 40.5% from the field and only six 3-pointers made.
The game began with Golden State establishing an early lead, going up 8-2. However, the Rockets quickly responded with a 15-6 run, showcasing their determination. The first quarter ended with the Warriors ahead 23-19, thanks to Hield’s buzzer-beater from half-court. The second quarter saw Hield continue to shine, and by halftime, the Warriors held a comfortable 51-39 lead.
Despite the deficit, the Rockets showed resilience, with Thompson leading a charge in the third quarter that cut the Warriors' lead to just three points. However, Golden State's defense held strong, limiting Houston's scoring opportunities. A crucial three-pointer from Butler late in the third quarter helped the Warriors regain momentum, finishing the quarter ahead 70-62.
As the fourth quarter commenced, Curry took control, scoring back-to-back baskets and increasing the lead to 13 points. The Rockets attempted to mount a comeback but were hindered by turnovers and missed shots. With Thompson sidelined due to a calf injury, the Warriors took advantage, pushing their lead to as much as 20 points late in the game.
The Warriors' ability to adapt and execute their game plan was evident throughout the contest. They made 18 three-pointers compared to the Rockets' six, a statistic that underscored the difference in offensive efficiency. Hield's hot shooting forced the Rockets to abandon their zone defense and switch to man-to-man, which opened up scoring opportunities for Curry and Butler.
In the aftermath of the game, the focus shifts to the upcoming series against the Timberwolves. The Warriors will face a tough challenge, especially considering that Minnesota has had several days of rest, while Golden State will be coming off a grueling seven-game series.
Looking ahead, the Warriors are eager to build on their success. They will need to harness the momentum from their Game 7 victory as they prepare for the Timberwolves. The first game of the series is set for Tuesday night at Target Center, and the Warriors will be looking to capitalize on their playoff experience to secure an early advantage.
As the playoffs continue, the stakes are high, and the pressure mounts. The Warriors, led by their seasoned veterans, are determined to make a deep run and contend for the championship. With Hield's breakout performance and the return of Butler to full strength, the team is optimistic about their chances against the Timberwolves.
The Warriors have now improved to 5-0 in playoff series against the Rockets, a testament to their dominance over Houston in recent years. As they gear up for the next round, the excitement builds for what promises to be an intense and thrilling matchup against Minnesota.
