In an intense NBA Cup quarterfinal matchup, the Houston Rockets edged out the Golden State Warriors with a narrow 91-90 victory, thanks to Jalen Green’s clutch free throws with just 3.5 seconds remaining. This win marks a significant breakthrough for the Rockets, ending their 15-game losing streak against the Warriors, a streak that had persisted since February 20, 2020. They now advance to the semifinals in Las Vegas, where they will face the Oklahoma City Thunder, who triumphed over Dallas in the other quarterfinal game.
Alperen Sengun was a standout for Houston, scoring 26 points and securing 11 rebounds, while Jabari Smith Jr. contributed 15 points. The Rockets initially built a comfortable 14-point lead but found themselves in a tight spot as the game drew to a close. With a resilient comeback, Houston narrowed the deficit in the final minutes, highlighted by Fred VanVleet’s crucial three-pointer and Sengun’s late layup.
Stephen Curry’s missed three-pointer in the closing seconds gave the Rockets a chance to capitalize. Gary Payton II retrieved the rebound, but Green’s interception led to him drawing a foul from Jonathan Kuminga, setting the stage for his decisive free throws. The Warriors had an opportunity to win with a buzzer-beater, yet Smith’s timely block against Brandin Podziemski solidified Houston’s victory.
This game marked a historic moment for the Rockets as they defied the odds, given that the Warriors had not lost in their history under Coach Steve Kerr when leading by six points or more in the last 90 seconds of play. The Warriors had previously beaten the Rockets twice this season without Curry, who scored 19 points in this matchup.
Now, as Houston prepares for the semifinal bout, this young and dynamic team has showcased remarkable resilience, demonstrating their capability to handle pressure even after relinquishing a double-digit lead—a positive sign for their prospects in the forthcoming games. Meanwhile, the Warriors will regroup as they head back to regular-season play, aiming to bounce back from this unexpected defeat.
Overall, Houston’s victory not only boosts their confidence but also sets an exciting tone as they advance deeper into the tournament.