By Alice Williams | May 3, 2025 | Nbprime
As the Houston Rockets defeated the Golden State Warriors 115-107 on Friday, Fred VanVleet came through with a clutch 29-point effort, tying their first-round NBA playoff series 3-3 and pushing a pivotal Game 7 in Houston.
VanVleet Sets an Example
In a must-win scenario, Fred VanVleet demonstrated why he still ranks among the most consistent playoff players in the league. Not just 29 points, but also eight assists and eight rebounds for the veteran point guard helped Houston stay in charge during vital Game 6 minutes.
Rockets head coach Ime Udoka remarked after the game, “He’s had some really good stretches lately.” “He knows what it is.” He has been a champion. Been there, done that. So I wouldn’t anticipate anything less.
Second-year big man Alperen Sengun also had a key part, grabbing a double-double with 21 points and 14 rebounds. His defensive presence and rebounding were important in limiting Golden State’s second-chance chances.
Golden State Let Another Lead Fade Away
Days ago, the Warriors were ahead in the series 3-1; today they are about to exit the first round. Though Stephen Curry scored 28 points, the squad in the second half lacked consistency and execution.
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Head coach Steve Kerr said, “I thought we got some good looks against the zone, but once they pulled away by 10 or 12, it was easier for them to run us off the line.”
With only 22 points between them, Klay Thompson and Andrew Wiggins, Golden State’s supporting cast fell short. Houston was able to win because of defensive lapses and a chilly shooting run in the fourth quarter.
Home Crowd Drives Houston’s Comeback
During Game 6, the Toyota Center crowd was electrifying, motivating the Rockets’ defense and giving them a morale boost under pressure. Houston outscored the Warriors in fast-break points and limited Golden State to only 21 fourth-quarter points.
Sengun remarked, “We fed off the energy.” In the fourth quarter, the supporters provided us that additional push. We understood we had to defend our own ground.
Houston’s bench also contributed significantly; Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks combined for 26 points and were key on defense.
Winner to Meet Timberwolves
Game 7, set for Sunday in Houston, immediately draws everyone’s attention as the series is deadlocked 3-3. The Minnesota Timberwolves, who eliminated the Los Angeles Lakers in five games earlier this week, will be faced by the winner.
The Warriors, who formerly led 3-1, run the risk of repeating history from their notorious 2016 Finals collapse. For the Rockets, it’s a chance to assert themselves under new head coach Ime Udoka and confirm their comeback to playoff contention.
VanVleet stated, “We’re not happy yet.” We still have one more.
