In a thrilling quarterfinal match of the NBA Cup, the Houston Rockets managed to defeat the Golden State Warriors 91-90, significantly marking their first victory against the Warriors since February 2020. The triumph was highlighted by Jalen Green’s clutch free throws, which he sank with just 3.5 seconds remaining on the clock, propelling the Rockets into the semifinals in Las Vegas where they will face the Oklahoma City Thunder.
The game was a rollercoaster, with Houston initially leading by 14 points before the Warriors rallied. The Warriors seemed on the verge of victory, having a six-point lead with just over 90 seconds left. However, the Rockets staged a remarkable comeback, primarily thanks to a critical three-pointer from Fred VanVleet and a timely layup from Alperen Sengun, who finished the night with an impressive 26 points and 11 rebounds.
Despite a late-game effort that saw Stephen Curry miss a potential game-winning three-pointer, the Warriors had a final opportunity to clinch the game, but Jabari Smith Jr. blocked Brandin Podziemski’s last-second shot attempt. Throughout the game, the Warriors appeared poised to maintain their historic streak; they had never lost when leading by at least six points in the final 1:30 under Coach Steve Kerr.
Steve Kerr did not shy away from expressing his frustration over a late foul call against the Warriors, highlighting the intensity and competitiveness of the match.
For the Rockets, this victory is a testament to their resilience and growth as a young team, showcasing their ability to rebound after almost squandering a lead. They now look ahead to their semifinal matchup, while the Warriors shift their focus back to the regular season.
The game serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of sports, where young talent can rise to the occasion in high-stakes moments. As we head towards the semifinals, both teams have shown the potential for exciting basketball ahead.