The Golden State Warriors reminded the league why they’re perennial contenders, fending off a furious late-game push from the Houston Rockets to secure a gritty 112-106 win on the road in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series. Despite a valiant effort by the young and rising Rockets squad, the Warriors’ championship experience proved decisive in crunch time.
Stephen Curry, the engine behind Golden State’s dynasty, led the way with a vintage performance. The two-time MVP poured in 31 points on a night where every bucket mattered. He also added 6 rebounds and 3 assists, including five clutch three-pointers that helped keep Houston at bay whenever the momentum seemed to shift. Curry’s ability to rise in the biggest moments was once again on full display, as he orchestrated the Warriors’ offense with a blend of flair, focus, and unmatched shooting touch.
But Curry wasn’t alone in delivering when it counted. Jimmy Butler, playing in his first postseason game as a Warrior, brought his signature toughness and two-way presence. Butler contributed 25 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists while adding 5 steals on the defensive end. His physicality and leadership steadied Golden State during Houston’s late surge, especially as the crowd at the Toyota Center grew louder with each Rocket basket.
For the Rockets, it was a game that showed both promise and pain. Alperen Sengun continued his breakout season with a commanding performance in the paint, finishing with 26 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 steals. His footwork and touch around the rim gave the Warriors trouble all night, and he was instrumental in helping the Rockets trim what was once a double-digit deficit to just two points midway through the fourth quarter.
Houston’s youth and athleticism were evident, as they pushed the pace and created havoc on defense. However, they also showed signs of inexperience in the final minutes, missing key free throws and committing untimely turnovers. Golden State, by contrast, executed with precision, getting key stops and making smart decisions down the stretch.
The Warriors’ defense, anchored by Draymond Green and bolstered by Butler’s aggressive on-ball pressure, held Houston to just 18 points in the final eight minutes after surrendering 35 in the third quarter. That lockdown mentality flipped the script in Golden State’s favor and allowed them to reassert control when it seemed the Rockets were on the verge of stealing the game.
Head coach Steve Kerr praised his team’s composure afterward. “That’s what it takes to win in the playoffs. It’s never going to be perfect, especially against a young, hungry team like Houston. But we stayed together, we made plays, and we showed what we’re made of.”
With Game 2 looming, the Rockets will look to regroup and clean up their execution in the clutch. They demonstrated they have the firepower and talent to compete with the league’s elite, but Game 1 was a reminder that championship experience often makes the difference when the stakes are highest.
The Warriors now lead the series 1-0 and head into Game 2 with momentum—and a reminder to the rest of the league that their championship DNA is still very much alive.