In a thrilling Western Conference clash on February 13, 2025, the Golden State Warriors edged out the Houston Rockets with a 105-98 victory at the Toyota Center. This highly competitive matchup saw momentum shifts, high-energy performances, and standout moments that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
First Half: Warriors Take Early Control
The Warriors wasted no time asserting dominance, with Stephen Curry and Jonathan Kuminga orchestrating a fast-paced offense. Curry’s signature three-pointers set the tone early, giving Golden State an initial lead.
- Curry’s Quick Start: The two-time MVP sank three consecutive shots from beyond the arc within the first six minutes.
- Draymond Green’s Defensive Presence: Green showcased his versatility by limiting Houston’s inside scoring while contributing six early assists.
- Kuminga’s Aggressive Drives: The young forward exploited mismatches, scoring 10 points in the first quarter alone.
Meanwhile, Jalen Green and the Rockets struggled with shooting efficiency. The team shot just 38% in the first half, missing key open looks and turning the ball over multiple times. However, defensive adjustments helped Houston slow down Golden State’s offensive rhythm by the second quarter.
Second Half: Rockets’ Resilience and Comeback Attempt
Trailing by as much as 24 points, Houston refused to go down without a fight. Aaron Holiday and Jalen Green led an electrifying third-quarter charge that cut the deficit to single digits.
- Aaron Holiday’s Impact: The backup guard tied his career-high with 25 points, including four crucial three-pointers.
- Jalen Green’s Scoring Burst: The Rockets’ young star found his rhythm, dropping 15 second-half points with dynamic slashes to the rim.
- Jeff Green’s Veteran Leadership: The seasoned forward provided steady defense and converted back-to-back mid-range jumpers to keep the momentum alive.
With the home crowd roaring, the Rockets closed the gap to just two points early in the fourth quarter. However, their rally was met with an emphatic response from Golden State.
Final Stretch: Curry and Thompson Seal the Win
When the game was on the line, the Warriors’ veteran core delivered. Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson executed a flawless two-man game, neutralizing the Rockets’ momentum.
- Curry’s Clutch Shooting: With less than three minutes left, he drained two deep three-pointers, extending the lead to seven points.
- Klay Thompson’s Mid-Range Precision: Thompson added eight fourth-quarter points, keeping Houston’s defense off balance.
- Kevon Looney’s Key Rebounds: Looney grabbed three crucial offensive boards, preventing Houston from getting extra possessions in crunch time.
Despite the Rockets’ valiant comeback, Golden State’s experience and execution under pressure secured the 105-98 victory.
Key Stats and Player Performances
- Golden State Warriors:
- Stephen Curry: 27 PTS, 5 REB, 6 AST, 5 3PM
- Klay Thompson: 18 PTS, 4 3PM
- Jonathan Kuminga: 16 PTS, 7 REB
- Draymond Green: 6 PTS, 9 AST, 8 REB, 2 STL
- Houston Rockets:
- Aaron Holiday: 25 PTS, 6 AST, 4 3PM
- Jalen Green: 22 PTS, 5 REB, 3 AST
- Alperen Sengun: 14 PTS, 9 REB, 4 AST
- Jeff Green: 11 PTS, 5 REB
What This Win Means for the Warriors
Golden State’s victory marks an important moment in their push for playoff positioning. The Warriors now hold the 10th spot in the Western Conference, keeping their postseason hopes alive as they head into the All-Star break.
Rockets’ Playoff Hopes Still Alive
Despite the loss, Houston remains in the playoff mix. However, injuries to Fred VanVleet and Jabari Smith Jr. have tested their depth. Jalen Green’s recent scoring surge is a positive sign as the team looks to regroup and finish the season strong.
What’s Next?
- Golden State Warriors: After the break, they face the Sacramento Kings in a crucial battle for playoff seeding.
- Houston Rockets: They will look to bounce back against the Oklahoma City Thunder, hoping to regain momentum.
Final Thoughts
This Rockets vs. Warriors matchup showcased the intensity of the Western Conference. While the Golden State Warriors emerged victorious, the Houston Rockets’ resilience proved they remain a team to watch. With key players stepping up and playoff implications on the line, both teams are gearing up for an electrifying second half of the season.
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