Rockets Force Game 6 Against Warriors After Key Victory

The Houston Rockets kept their playoff hopes alive by defeating the Golden State Warriors decisively in Game 5, narrowing the Warriors’ series lead to 3-2 and forcing a Game 6 in San Francisco. The Rockets, who had trailed 3-1 in the series, led by as many as 31 points in Game 5, prompting Warriors coach Steve Kerr to pull his starters early to rest them for the next matchup. Houston’s success was attributed to a balanced offensive approach and a strong defensive effort, especially in limiting Stephen Curry’s effectiveness, with Amen Thompson and the team focusing on making the Warriors’ star uncomfortable. Rockets coach Ime Udoka emphasized the need for collective defensive recognition to contain Curry and disrupt Golden State’s offensive schemes. Despite their Game 5 dominance, the Rockets still face significant challenges, needing to win on the road for the first time this postseason and potentially overcome the experience of Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green in a Game 7. The series remains tightly contested, with the Rockets demonstrating resilience against a veteran Warriors squad.