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6d ago

Warriors Take Game 1 With Defense and Star Power Over Rockets

Golden State overcame Houston's rebounding dominance and physicality to secure a 95-85 road victory, setting the tone for a grueling playoff series.

Image
Fred VanVleet of the Houston Rockets dives for the ball against Gary Payton II, left, and Stephen Curry, right, of the Golden State Warriors during the first quarter in Game 1 of the Western Conference first-round NBA playoffs at Toyota Center on April 20, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
HOUSTON, TEXAS - APRIL 20: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors attempts a lay up against the Houston Rockets during the fourth quarter in Game One of the Western Conference First Round NBA Playoffs at Toyota Center on April 20, 2025 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images)
HOUSTON, TEXAS - APRIL 20: Head coach Steve Kerr of the Golden State Warriors reacts during the fourth quarter against the Houston Rockets in Game One of the Western Conference First Round NBA Playoffs at Toyota Center on April 20, 2025 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images)

Overview

  • Stephen Curry led the Warriors with 31 points on 12-of-19 shooting, including five three-pointers, showcasing his offensive versatility under intense defensive pressure.
  • Jimmy Butler made history in his Warriors playoff debut, recording 25 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists, and 5 steals, joining an elite group of players with such postseason performances.
  • Golden State's defense stifled Houston, holding the Rockets to 29.3 points below their regular-season scoring average and limiting their backcourt to 7-of-34 shooting.
  • Despite being outrebounded 52-36 and allowing 22 offensive boards, the Warriors capitalized on Houston's poor shooting and turnovers to maintain control throughout the game.
  • The series continues Wednesday in Houston, with the Rockets needing offensive adjustments to counter Golden State's poise and defensive intensity.