On May 4, 2025, the Golden State Warriors found themselves in a must-win Game 7 against the Houston Rockets, and they did not disappoint. The Warriors secured a commanding 103-89 victory, clinching the win in a dramatic fashion at the Toyota Center. This victory not only marked a pivotal moment in the 2025 NBA playoffs but also signaled the Warriors’ strength and resilience as they continue their playoff journey.
The game was a culmination of a tense seven-game series that had showcased the Warriors’ championship experience and the Rockets’ explosive, youthful energy. As the Western Conference semifinals loom large, the Warriors now prepare for their next challenge—facing off against the Minnesota Timberwolves. In this blog, we will delve deeper into the key moments, player performances, and strategic decisions that shaped this high-stakes Game 7.
Buddy Hield’s Record-Breaking Performance
Buddy Hield’s performance in Game 7 will be remembered as one of the most electric and influential displays in recent NBA playoff history. The sharpshooting guard had been known for his perimeter shooting throughout the season, but he truly solidified his place in the Warriors’ postseason legacy during this game. Hield finished the contest with an astounding 33 points, but it was his record-setting three-point shooting that caught everyone’s attention.
In the first half alone, Hield knocked down six three-pointers, setting a new NBA record for the most made threes in the first half of a Game 7. He finished with an incredible nine threes on just 11 attempts, helping the Warriors surge ahead in the early stages of the game. Hield’s hot shooting sparked a 12-0 run in the second quarter that ultimately set the tone for the rest of the contest. His half-court buzzer-beater to end the first quarter was a statement moment—one that left fans and analysts alike in awe of his composure and shooting ability.
Hield’s performance wasn’t just a case of hitting open shots—he showcased a well-rounded offensive game, moving without the ball, finding space, and getting his shot off in rhythm. His shooting was not only vital in putting points on the board but also in stretching the Rockets’ defense. With Hield’s perimeter shooting keeping Houston on its toes, other Warriors like Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson were able to exploit the Rockets’ defense for easier looks.
The significance of Hield’s record-breaking night was also seen in the bigger picture. The Warriors have long been known for their shooting prowess, and Hield’s performance felt like a continuation of that tradition. His ability to hit clutch shots in a game with so much on the line was a crucial factor in securing the victory.
Stephen Curry’s Fourth-Quarter Surge
While Hield’s performance was the story early on, Stephen Curry reminded everyone why he is one of the greatest players of all time with a stellar fourth-quarter performance. The Warriors’ star, who had been quiet in the first three quarters by his usual standards, exploded in the final period, scoring 14 of his 22 points. Curry also contributed 10 rebounds and seven assists, showcasing his all-around game when his team needed him most.
As the Rockets attempted to make a run in the final minutes, it was Curry who took control, executing a series of clutch shots and plays that put the game out of reach. One of the key moments came when Curry drilled a three-pointer with just under three minutes remaining to give the Warriors a commanding 12-point lead. The shot was a symbol of the Warriors’ resolve and Curry’s unshakable confidence in clutch situations.
Beyond his scoring, Curry also made critical passes, setting up teammates for easy baskets and maintaining the flow of the offense. His leadership in the fourth quarter was the hallmark of his greatness, and it was clear that the Warriors leaned on his experience to close out a hard-fought game. Curry’s timely performance also helped quiet the Rockets’ efforts to rally and shifted the momentum firmly back in Golden State’s favor.
As the clock wound down and the Warriors secured the win, Curry’s patented “night night” celebration—fists in the air and a wink to the crowd—served as a fitting punctuation to his dominant Game 7 performance. For Curry, it was yet another reminder of his status as a postseason performer, capable of delivering when the stakes are highest.
Rockets’ Valiant Effort Falls Short
Although the Warriors were the victors, the Houston Rockets should be commended for their valiant effort throughout the series and Game 7. Despite facing a 3-1 deficit in the series, the Rockets fought back with determination, forcing the series to go the full seven games. While they fell short in Game 7, their fight throughout the series was a testament to the team’s growth and resilience under the leadership of head coach Ime Udoka.
Amen Thompson led the Rockets with a solid 24 points and nine rebounds, demonstrating his ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor. His versatility, athleticism, and poise in big moments were clear to see as he consistently attacked the basket and made key plays. Thompson’s high level of play in the series has elevated his status as one of the bright young stars in the NBA.
Alperen Şengün, the Rockets’ skilled big man, added 21 points and 14 rebounds in Game 7. His ability to control the paint and make plays for his teammates kept the Rockets competitive, but unfortunately, his efforts weren’t enough to overcome the Warriors’ explosive offense.
One of the major factors in Houston’s loss was the shooting struggles of Jalen Green, who was limited to just eight points in the game. Green had been one of the Rockets’ most dynamic players throughout the season, but in Game 7, he was largely contained by the Warriors’ defense. This inconsistency in scoring proved to be a significant obstacle for the Rockets as they tried to keep pace with Golden State.
Despite the loss, the Rockets showed that they are a team on the rise. Their performance in this series was an indication that they are building something special, and with their young core in place, the future looks bright for the Rockets.
Warriors’ Defensive Prowess
In addition to their offensive firepower, the Warriors also demonstrated a well-executed defensive strategy that played a crucial role in their Game 7 victory. While the Rockets were able to score 89 points, the Warriors’ defense locked down key players when it mattered most. They limited Houston’s fast-break opportunities and made it difficult for the Rockets to generate easy baskets.
The defensive efforts of Kevon Looney and Draymond Green were especially important. Looney provided a steady presence in the paint, securing 12 rebounds and limiting the Rockets’ second-chance opportunities. Green, known for his defensive versatility, was tasked with guarding the Rockets’ stars and had several key defensive stops. His ability to switch on screens, contest shots, and protect the rim helped limit Houston’s offensive efficiency.
Additionally, the Warriors’ perimeter defense was on display, as they contested every three-point attempt and ensured that the Rockets’ shooters didn’t get clean looks from beyond the arc. Golden State’s ability to execute defensively, especially in a high-pressure Game 7 environment, highlighted their well-rounded capabilities as a team.
Looking Ahead: Warriors Face Timberwolves in Semifinals
With the victory in Game 7, the Golden State Warriors now turn their attention to the Western Conference semifinals. They will face off against the Minnesota Timberwolves, who had a strong regular season and have been impressive in their own right during the playoffs. The Timberwolves will present a unique challenge, with their talented roster led by Karl-Anthony Towns and Anthony Edwards.
Game 1 of the series is set for Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. in Minnesota. The Warriors will need to continue their balanced play—combining strong defense with explosive offense—if they hope to advance to the Western Conference Finals. The Timberwolves have shown themselves to be a resilient team, and they will not be an easy opponent.
For the Warriors, this series will test their depth and versatility. They have the experience and talent to make another deep playoff run, but they will need contributions from every player on the roster, not just Curry and Hield. The Warriors’ coaching staff, led by Steve Kerr, will have to make critical adjustments as the series unfolds, and their ability to execute will be a major factor in determining the outcome.
A Historic Moment for the Warriors
This Game 7 win was not just another playoff victory for the Warriors—it was a testament to their resilience, adaptability, and championship pedigree. The series against the Rockets showed that the Warriors are still a dominant force in the NBA, capable of overcoming challenges and playing at a high level when it matters most.
As the Warriors now prepare for the next round, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if this team, led by the legendary Curry and supported by rising stars like Hield, can make another deep run to the NBA Finals. For now, however, the focus is on the Timberwolves, and the Warriors’ quest for another championship continues.
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