Warriors Advance in Playoffs After Rallying Past Rockets in Game 7

San Francisco, CA – The Golden State Warriors powered through the Houston Rockets in a gripping Game 7 of their first-round playoff series, winning 103-89 on May 4, 2025. This victory propels the Warriors to the second round, where they will face the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Star player Stephen Curry began the game slowly, managing only three points in the first half. However, Buddy Hield stepped up, scoring 22 of his 33 points in the first half, including nine 3-pointers, tying a Game 7 record. His early performance helped the Warriors take a significant lead.

After halftime, Curry regained his rhythm, adding 19 points in the second half, finishing the night with a total of 22 points. Jimmy Butler contributed 20 points, strengthening the team’s offensive effort. Golden State struggled early to break down Houston’s defensive zone, needing all seven games to figure it out.

The Rockets faced significant disappointment, marking their fifth postseason series loss to Curry’s Warriors since 2015. Although they hosted the decisive game as the No. 2 seed, they fell short, with Amen Thompson leading their scoring with 24 points and Alperen Sengun adding 21.

This win also made Golden State only the third No. 7 seed in the 21st century to beat a No. 2 seed in the NBA playoffs, joining the ranks of the 2023 Lakers and 2010 Spurs. The Warriors secured their postseason spot after defeating the Memphis Grizzlies in the Play-In Tournament.

As the Rockets turn their focus to the offseason, they are expected to consider trade options with a bounty of draft picks and young talent at their disposal. Questions linger about whether they will maintain their current roster or implement major changes for next season.