Rockets Force Game 7 Against Warriors with 115-107 Victory

San Francisco, CA — The Houston Rockets extended their postseason by defeating the Golden State Warriors 115-107 on May 2, 2025, forcing a decisive Game 7 in their first-round playoff series.

Fred VanVleet led the Rockets with 29 points, eight assists, and eight rebounds. Alperen Şengün contributed 21 points and 14 rebounds. The win ensures Houston’s season continues while Golden State falls from a 3-1 series lead to a tied 3-3.

The game’s momentum shifted in the fourth quarter when VanVleet made a crucial four-point play, restoring the Rockets’ lead after the Warriors had narrowed the gap. Warriors forward Jimmy Butler commented on the importance of the match, saying, “I think we just know how important it is, they do too.”

Golden State struggled offensively, missing 13 consecutive shots during a critical stretch late in the game. Stephen Curry scored 29 points but shot just 9 of 23 from the field, and his efforts were not enough to secure the win. The Warriors shot 41.1% overall and 30.6% from three-point range.

Houston coach Ime Udoka‘s strategy proved successful as he improved to 5-1 when facing elimination. Meanwhile, Warriors coach Steve Kerr had previously been undefeated in first-round series, holding a 7-0 record.

“We can’t give up a four-point play in a two-point game,” Warriors’ Draymond Green noted, reflecting on the game’s pivotal moment.

With the series now tied, the Warriors and Rockets will head to Houston for Game 7 on Sunday. The winner will advance to face the well-rested Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference semifinals.