The Houston Rockets weren’t about to go quietly. Facing elimination in Game 5, they erupted early and never let up, beating the Golden State Warriors 131-116 on Wednesday night to extend their first-round series to a Game 6.
Here are five takeaways from a game that Houston dominated early — and one that might carry psychological implications as the series shifts back to San Francisco.
1. Rockets Set the Tone Early
The game was essentially decided in the first half. Houston came out swinging, building a 27-point halftime lead behind blistering shooting and stifling defense. By the break, they were shooting nearly 70% from the field and 60% from deep. The Warriors, meanwhile, looked shell-shocked, committing five fouls in the opening minutes and giving up a 15-0 run that ballooned to 26-5.
“They had a 95% effective field goal percentage at halftime,” Warriors coach Steve Kerr said. “I’ve never seen that before.”
Houston’s aggressive zone defense also kept Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler scoreless until well into the second quarter. The Rockets’ early statement was loud and clear — they weren’t ready for vacation.
2. Green and VanVleet Step Up
Two players under pressure — Jalen Green and Fred VanVleet — found their rhythm when it mattered most. VanVleet, the playoff veteran, scored 26 points, including 19 in the first half. Green, who had been heavily criticized for inconsistent performances, had a more modest stat line with 11 points, but his early aggression helped ignite Houston’s momentum.
VanVleet’s back-to-back strong performances (he had 25 in Game 4) signal he’s settling into a rhythm — a good sign for Houston as the series continues.
3. Warriors Bench Brings Late Spark
Down by nearly 30, Kerr benched his starters midway through the third quarter. It wasn’t a surrender as much as it was a strategic decision. His reserves responded with energy and outscored Houston’s bench 76-34. A 19-5 run early in the fourth cut the deficit to 13, prompting Rockets coach Ime Udoka to reinsert his starters.
Kerr praised the effort: “They set a tone that we’re going to need for Game 6. Even though we lost, it was a crucial finish.”
While the comeback fizzled, it might have given Golden State a morale boost heading into Friday.
4. Kerr Frustrated With Contact on Curry
Curry’s taped right thumb continues to be a concern. Kerr claimed Houston defenders were targeting the injury on shot releases, something he and other coaches believe should be considered a foul. NBA TV, however, aired clips showing Curry’s hand untouched on several shots, and Udoka dismissed any suggestion of foul play.
5. Fourth-Quarter Fireworks
With the game mostly out of reach, emotions flared late. A scuffle between Warriors reserve Pat Spencer and Rockets center Alperen Sengun escalated quickly, with headbutts, shoves, and both benches nearly clearing. It added a layer of physical tension to an already chippy series.
When it was over, Houston had not only survived — they had reasserted themselves. Game 6 at Chase Center now promises even more intensity.
