NBA/ Warriors overcome rockets in game 7 thriller, advance to face Timberwolves

The Golden State Warriors showcased their championship pedigree Monday night, overcoming a resilient Houston Rockets squad in a decisive Game 7 to win 103-89 and secure their spot in the Western Conference semifinals.

After squandering a 3-1 series lead and allowing the Rockets to force a winner-takes-all finale, the Warriors leaned on the late-game heroics of Stephen Curry and a breakout performance from Buddy Hield to avoid a historic collapse.

Curry, who struggled early, erupted for 14 of his 22 points in the fourth quarter to seal the victory. Meanwhile, Hield delivered a career-defining performance, draining nine three-pointers en route to a game-high 33 points.

« We blocked out all the noise and just understood we had 48 minutes to dig deep, » Curry said postgame. « Everybody contributed. Buddy was unbelievable. »

The Rockets, who finished second in the West during the regular season, had hoped to become just the 14th team in NBA history to overcome a 3-1 series deficit. But Golden State’s veteran poise and timely shot-making proved too much in the end.

Jimmy Butler, acquired from Miami in February, provided a crucial all-around effort with 20 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists. His integration into the Warriors’ system has been seamless, and his presence was vital in the high-stakes environment.

« For us to build chemistry on the fly, trust on the fly, and perform like this in a Game 7—it means everything, » Curry added. « Mission accomplished—step one. »

Golden State now shifts focus to the Minnesota Timberwolves, who present a formidable challenge with their elite defense and rising star Anthony Edwards.

Pacers stun cavaliers in game 1 upset

Meanwhile, in the Eastern Conference semifinals, the Indiana Pacers sent a strong message with a 121-112 road victory over the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers.

Andrew Nembhard led the charge with 23 points, while All-Star Tyrese Haliburton added 22 in a balanced offensive attack. The Cavaliers, who swept Miami in the first round, suffered their first postseason loss of 2024.

« We’re definitely the heavy underdog, » Haliburton admitted. « But we’re trying to control what we can. This gives us momentum, but Cleveland is the best team in our conference—they don’t lose much. »

Game 2 is set for Wednesday in Cleveland, where the Cavaliers will look to even the series before it shifts to Indiana.