The Golden State Warriors (13-8) finally ended their 5-game losing streak with a thrilling 99-93 victory over the Houston Rockets (15-8). Missing both Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, the Warriors leaned on Jonathan Kuminga, who delivered a career-best 33 points. Meanwhile, Rockets head coach Ime Udoka wasn’t shy about expressing his disappointment, calling this the team’s “softest performance” yet.
Let’s break down how the Warriors eked out a win, why the Rockets continued their losing streak against Golden State, and what this means moving forward.
Warriors Shine Without Curry and Green
It’s no secret that the Warriors live and die by Curry’s shooting and Green’s defense, but on this night, they proved there’s life beyond their superstar duo. Jonathan Kuminga, often touted as the team’s future, stepped up big time with 33 points and six rebounds. His performance wasn’t just electric—it was clutch, including a key basket in the dying minutes that sealed the win.
Andrew Wiggins also reminded fans of his value, contributing 23 points and nine rebounds. Brandin Podziemski, the rookie sensation, chipped in with eight points and an impressive 12 rebounds, showcasing his hustle and versatility.
Rockets’ Offensive Woes
On the Rockets’ side, it was a frustrating night. Alperen Sengun led the team with 16 points, eight rebounds, and five assists, while Dillon Brooks and Amen Thompson contributed 15 and 14 points, respectively. But the glaring issue was inefficiency.
The team shot just 37.6% from the field and an abysmal 26.3% from beyond the arc. Jalen Green and Fred VanVleet, Houston’s supposed offensive cornerstones, combined for a dismal 9-of-32 shooting performance. When your stars can’t find the basket, it’s hard to win—especially against a team as seasoned as Golden State.
Udoka’s Tough Love
After the game, Rockets coach Ime Udoka didn’t sugarcoat his thoughts. “This was the softest game we’ve played since I started coaching here,” he said bluntly. Despite their strong 15-8 record, Udoka highlighted the team’s lack of effort and composure, particularly in the second half.
Houston has excelled this season with its transition offense, but when forced into a half-court battle, their weaknesses become evident. Their inability to execute consistently in set plays was exposed, leaving Udoka visibly frustrated.
The Game Flow
First Quarter:
Both teams struggled offensively, trading bricks instead of baskets. The Rockets scraped ahead, ending the quarter with a 4-point lead.
Second Quarter:
Golden State found their rhythm, led by Kuminga and Wiggins, outscoring Houston to take a 6-point lead at halftime.
Third Quarter:
The Warriors extended their lead to double digits, showcasing their depth and defensive tenacity. The Rockets, however, clawed back with a late surge to keep it close.
Fourth Quarter:
The Rockets had multiple chances to take the lead but couldn’t capitalize. Kuminga’s clutch layup in the final moments dashed any hopes of a Houston comeback.
Key Stats
Golden State Warriors (13-8):
- Jonathan Kuminga: 33 points, 6 rebounds (and the game-sealing play).
- Andrew Wiggins: 23 points, 9 rebounds.
- Brandin Podziemski: 8 points, 12 rebounds, 3 assists.
- Lester Quinones: 8 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists.
Houston Rockets (15-8):
- Alperen Sengun: 16 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists.
- Dillon Brooks: 15 points, 3 rebounds.
- Amen Thompson: 14 points, 8 rebounds.
- Jalen Green & Fred VanVleet: Combined 28 points on 32 attempts (ouch).
What’s Next?
For the Warriors, this win is a morale boost. Without Curry and Green, they showed grit and resilience, proving they can compete even when shorthanded. Jonathan Kuminga’s star-making performance is a promising sign for Golden State’s future.
The Rockets, however, have soul-searching to do. Their inability to execute in crunch time continues to haunt them, and Udoka’s critique suggests deeper issues. If Houston wants to be a legitimate contender, fixing their half-court offense is a must.
FAQs
Kuminga was the star of the game, scoring 33 points and securing the game-winning layup.
Poor shooting, particularly from Jalen Green and Fred VanVleet, and an inability to execute in the half-court offense doomed them.
Udoka called this the “softest game” the Rockets have played under his leadership, criticizing the team’s lack of effort.
Houston has lost 15 straight games to Golden State, with their last win dating back to 2020.
Conclusion
“In the absence of Curry, Kuminga scored 33 points, and the Warriors narrowly defeated the Rockets to end their 5-game losing streak” encapsulates the night’s action. Kuminga’s heroics lifted the Warriors out of their slump, while Houston continued their struggles against Golden State.
For the Warriors, this win is a reminder of their depth and resilience, even without their stars. For the Rockets, it’s a wake-up call to address glaring issues before they derail their season.
Basketball is a game of runs, both on the court and in the standings. The Warriors are back in the win column, but for the Rockets, the streak of futility against Golden State lives on—much to Udoka’s chagrin.
