Stephen Curry waited until it mattered most—and then lit up Houston.
After scoring just three points through three quarters, Curry exploded for 14 in the final period, powering the Golden State Warriors to a 103-89 win over the Houston Rockets in a decisive Game 7 of the first-round NBA playoff series.
The Warriors move on to face the Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference Semifinals.
Buddy Blazes Early, Steph Closes Late
While Curry took his time to get going, Buddy Hield wasted none. He drained nine threes and poured in 33 points—setting an NBA record for most threes in a Game 7.
“Just trying to stay in the moment,” Hield said. “Tonight was fun.”
Golden State led by eight going into the fourth quarter. That’s when Curry finally found his rhythm—hitting contested jumpers, snagging crucial rebounds, and even delivering a signature “night night” celebration as the Rockets faded.
“It was a gutsy performance,” said Warriors coach Steve Kerr. “Steph showed incredible resolve, and Buddy was sensational on both ends.”
Warriors Make History, Again
Golden State became just the seventh No. 7 seed in NBA history to reach the conference semifinals. They’ve now knocked the Rockets out of the playoffs five times in the past decade.
“It’s a different roster, but same story,” said Draymond Green. “We love playing here.”
Jimmy Butler added 20 points, eight boards, and seven assists—continuing to thrive since his February trade from Miami. The Warriors are 28-11 since his arrival.
Rockets Fall Short After Comeback Effort
Houston, the West’s second seed, battled back from a 3-1 series deficit to force a Game 7, but ran out of steam at home.
Amen Thompson led the Rockets with 24 points. Fred VanVleet, who had been red-hot in Games 5 and 6, was held to 17. Jalen Green, who once dropped 38 in this series, scored just eight.
“We had our opportunities,” said Rockets coach Ime Udoka. “It’s tough to swallow, but we’ll use this as fuel.”
The loss stings for a young Houston squad trying to forge a new playoff identity after years of rebuilding.
Looking Ahead
The Warriors now prepare for a tough matchup against the Timberwolves, starting Wednesday in Minnesota.
As Curry put it: “Mission accomplished—step one.”
For real-time sports news, expert analysis, and exclusive updates, visit DanredSports.com!x