In a dramatic finale to a rollercoaster playoff series, Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors dug deep to eliminate the Houston Rockets 103-89 in Game 7 of their Western Conference first-round showdown. With the series tied 3-3 and all to play for in Houston, the Warriors showed heart, hustle, and a whole lot of clutch shooting to book a semi-final date with the Minnesota Timberwolves.
From the Brink to the Big Stage
The Warriors, who had once held a commanding 3-1 series lead, suddenly found themselves facing a rejuvenated Rockets team that clawed back to force a decider. But when it mattered most, Golden State’s big guns delivered. Curry led by example, dropping 14 of his 22 points in a decisive fourth quarter push.
“We had to dig deep,” Curry said post-game. “Everyone was talking about our energy and execution after Games 5 and 6, but we blocked out the noise. We knew we had 48 minutes to give everything — and that’s what we did.”
Buddy Hield’s Career Night
While Curry brought the leadership and clutch scoring, it was Buddy Hield who lit up the scoreboard. The sharpshooter erupted for a game-high 33 points, sinking nine three-pointers and keeping the Rockets’ defense scrambling all night.
“Buddy was unbelievable,” Curry praised. “He stepped up in a massive way.”
Butler’s All-Around Brilliance
Newcomer Jimmy Butler, acquired from the Miami Heat in February, proved his worth yet again. The veteran forward filled the stat sheet with 20 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists, showcasing his versatility and playoff pedigree.
“For us to build chemistry and trust so quickly, and perform like that in a Game 7 — it means everything,” Curry added. “Mission accomplished — step one.”
Rockets’ Comeback Falls Short
The Rockets, who finished second in the Western Conference during the regular season, came tantalizingly close to becoming just the 14th team in NBA history to overturn a 3-1 series deficit. But despite their valiant effort, the Warriors’ experience and poise under pressure proved too much.
Eastern Conference Update: Pacers Stun Top-Seeded Cavs
In the East, the Indiana Pacers pulled off a statement win on the road, defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers 121-112 to take a 1-0 lead in their semi-final series. Andrew Nembhard led the charge with 23 points, while All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton added 22.
The Cavaliers, who had swept the Miami Heat in the first round, suffered their first playoff loss of the season.
“We’re definitely the underdogs,” Haliburton admitted. “But we’re focused on what we can control. This gives us momentum, but we know Cleveland’s the best team in the East — they don’t lose often.”
Looking Ahead
With the Warriors advancing and the Pacers striking early in their series, the NBA Playoffs continue to heat up. One thing is clear: no team is safe, and every game has the potential to shift the postseason narrative.
