In a thrilling conclusion to their first-round playoff series, the Golden State Warriors defeated the Houston Rockets 103–89 in Game 7, thanks to a historic performance by Buddy Hield. Hield scored 33 points, tying an NBA Game 7 record with nine three-pointers, and became the first player to go scoreless in one playoff game and score over 30 in the next.
Hield’s Unprecedented Shooting Display
After a scoreless Game 6, Hield delivered a career-defining performance in Game 7. He shot 12-of-15 from the field, including 9-of-11 from beyond the arc, and committed no turnovers in nearly 37 minutes of play. His nine three-pointers tied the NBA record for most in a Game 7.
Hield’s impact was immediate, scoring 22 points in the first half, including a buzzer-beater from half-court to close the first quarter. His six first-half three-pointers set a new league record for most in the first half of a Game 7.
Curry and Butler Provide Support
Stephen Curry contributed 22 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists, with 14 of his points coming in the final quarter. Jimmy Butler added 20 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists, while Draymond Green chipped in 16 points and strong defensive play.
Rockets’ Effort Falls Short
The Rockets, led by Amen Thompson’s 24 points and Alperen Sengun’s 21 points and 14 rebounds, struggled with shooting, hitting only 40.5% from the field and 6-of-18 from three-point range. Despite a late series push, Houston was unable to overcome Golden State’s strong defensive effort and timely offensive contributions.
Warriors Advance to Face Timberwolves
With the victory, the Warriors advance to the Western Conference semifinals to face the Minnesota Timberwolves. Golden State became the seventh No. 7 seed in NBA history to reach the semifinals. Under head coach Steve Kerr, the Warriors improved to 4–1 in Game 7s.
Hield’s breakout performance earned him the nickname “Game 7 Buddy” and marked a historic turnaround, underscoring his importance to the Warriors’ playoff aspirations.
The Warriors will look to carry this momentum into their series against the Timberwolves, with Game 1 scheduled for Tuesday in Minnesota.
Warriors Advance to Face Timberwolves
With the victory, the Warriors advance to the Western Conference semifinals to face the Minnesota Timberwolves. Golden State became the seventh No. 7 seed in NBA history to reach the semifinals. Under head coach Steve Kerr, the Warriors improved to 4–1 in Game 7s.
Hield’s breakout performance earned him the nickname “Game 7 Buddy” and marked a historic turnaround, underscoring his importance to the Warriors’ playoff aspirations.
The Warriors will look to carry this momentum into their series against the Timberwolves, with Game 1 scheduled for Tuesday in Minnesota.
