NBA LIVE! Houston Rockets vs Golden State Warriors | July 5, 2025 Warriors vs Rockets 2K Preseason
since being drafted in 2021, Alper and Shenun has really grown his game, Richard.
Particularly his assist numbers. That’s what impresses me. You can run the offense through the 6’11 Shenun. It’s so impressive. Curry and he buries his first look.
He’s a magician inside. Curry always finds a window.
And here are the Rockets. And let’s send it over to Alli Leforce.
Well, I had a chance to talk with head coach Eay Udoka for a minute. I asked him outright how he planned to deal with Steph Curry. How does anyone deal with him? Coach joked. He went on to say, we’ll try to contest every shot and chase him off the ark, but emphasis on try. Not easy to solve a problem with no good solution. I guess BA.
Okay, good stuff. Thank you, Ally. Curry finds Green. Now here’s Heel. Pulls up on the wing. Can’t get his first shot of the game to fall.
Oh, I can see some miscommunication on defense there very clearly. They were super fortunate it didn’t torch them with that mistake.
Just taking it right to the rim and no one was there to greet them. Easy possessions like that literally are just a gift. You just dream of them. He will gladly take those.
Off target with the open look. Ooh, that’s a tough break after poor communication defensively. It leaves him all by himself. Durant looking around. Shenun the screen for three
and Durant hits from deep. The confidence that Durant has in his three-point shot is something special. He doesn’t doubt his selections at all. Outside Curry, [Applause] they need this. And he gets it to go. Hitting off the back of the rim. Obviously, this guy has a talent for scoring. Able to problem solve for whatever the defense tosses at him. Thompson with it. Now Pajimky defending and out of bounds. The Warriors will take it. [Applause] First quarter of ball almost 2 and 1/2 minutes in. [Applause] Back to Curry. Fires the three. Connects from downtown. Curry’s got five points. When Curry gets a look that’s good, he is automatic. There is almost no stopping him. Thompson outside inside and it’s slammed in by Durant. Just a textbook lead pass right there. Putting it right where it needed to be. Back to Curry. This one for three. Can’t hit that one. The Rockets lead by five. Outside. Durant. Thompson. Passes to Smith. Heel against Durant. Fires for three [Applause] and it goes out of bounds. Last touch by Shenun and Steve Kerr calls timeout and we might see some changes. Coach potentially looking to adjust [Applause] [Applause] Heat. [Applause] [Applause] Heat. Heat. [Applause] Heat. Heat. Heat. [Applause] [Applause] Heat. Heat. [Applause] [Applause] Now here’s Pajki defended by Thompson. Pass to Curry. Jacks up a three. Nails it from three. Curry’s got eight. Yeah. Most of the time you assume Curry’s three ball is falling. That’s how good he is. Remember when people were questioning whether the Warriors were truly a dynasty, RJ?
I do. And that was erased for good with that championship run in 2022. I still think that that is Steph’s most important championship. That title cemented them as one of the all-time great teams of the last 50 years. Golden State has gone two for four from range to start things off. Three-pointer. It’s rebounded by Shangun. And so Thompson will bring it up for Houston. Outside Durant Shangon a screen on heel to the middle and Shangon throw it down. I like how Durant keeps all his options open kicking the ball to another guy when he doesn’t like what the pick and roll gets him. [Applause] Man, count that. two points and a chance for one more at the line.
And they may have talked about shot selection coming into this.
He’s getting his first free throw attempt of the game here. Richard, how about that memorable Rockets winning streak early in 2024?
11 straight wins. Look, that’s no easy task. No matter who you are playing, the energy in the locker room must have just been off the charts.
Now, here’s Shenun. Five points in the game. Pass to Durant. Puts up a three. And the three-pointer goes. Give him eight.
Slick shot by Durant. Gets the pass and is in his motion a second later. Green against Shenun. Now Pajimski. Shot clock at six. Here’s Curry. Can’t cash it in from close range. Houston leading by four. Fires at the elbow. Durant shot is off. That’s the shot they wanted. It just didn’t fall. Tough to watch those miss. I’m sure they’ll convert the next chance.
And when we talk about players who impact winning, Draymond Green is high on that list, RJ.
And the amazing thing, his career scoring average is in the single digits. Draymond does it with his passing and directing the defense and gives his teams energy. [Applause] First free throw is good.
The quintessential glue guy. Green does all the dirty work. You need one of these guys on your team because he has such a diverse skill set.
And Houston making a change here. Een’s checked in. and good on the second. So he makes them both. Richard, it comes as no surprise that Golden State is routinely at the top of the league for made threes. That’s how this team has been constructed. They are custom built to rain threes on you and we’ve seen it be very, very effective.
Now here’s Thompson and he knocks down the 10-footer. And you see the tight handles from Thompson. He can break defenders down in pick and roll, ISO, you name it. And Steve Kerr calls timeout. He wants a few moments to regroup with his players. Richard, if you look back at the Rockets history, it’s striking how many all-time greats have worn that uniform.
There are so many Hall of Famers. Hakee Elijah, Ralph Samson, Calvin Murphy, Yao Ming, Elvin Hayes, and that’s only to name a few. [Applause] Heat. Heat. [Applause] Heat up [Applause] here. [Applause] Heat. [Applause] Heat. [Applause] [Applause] Who’s watching him? Green with the ball. He’s picked up by Een. The game of Green. It’s about testing the defense, finding their weak spots.
And let’s take a moment here to get your take, guys, on the scoring so far for Houston. I’ve really been impressed with how aggressive they’ve been inside, looking to capitalize from the paint whenever they can.
Another thing they’re doing well early on is passing the ball, spreading it around the floor, and feeding guys who are well set up to score. And the first one at the line is good. And both free throws good for Green. And Grant, you look at the Rockets additions over the last year or two. There’s an emphasis on toughness. Yeah, toughness both physical and mental. Those are the kinds of veterans they’ve brought in. And that extends, of course, to the coaching staff, too. Now, here’s Een. Six on the shot clock. [Applause] Thompson in the post. He’s covered by Curry. Kept alive by Houston. Got it. Durant’s got 10 points in the game.
And Durant’s jumper is as pure as it gets. You just assume ahead of time it’s going in.
Outside PMski back to Curry outside PMski. Count it. His third and five attempts. I wouldn’t say Butler seeks contact, but he sure doesn’t turn it down. Shenun passes to Smith and so he draws the foul headed to the line to shoot a pair. That’s on Jimmy Butler. And one guy who’s just scratching the surface of his potential, Jabari Smith.
Yeah, he’s still very young, still gaining strength, but his upside on both ends is enormous. That free throw no good
and the number three pick in the 2022 NBA draft. Smith Jr.’s ceiling is considered to be very high.
Holidays checked in for Alpin Shenun. The Warriors also with a sub. Moody’s checked in for Stephen Curry. And the second free throw is good. Look, a big man who can score at all three levels. They do not grow on trees. Smith Jr., he is one of them. Outside heel lets it go from 14. Smith with the rebound.
Houston leading by three. All right, let’s get a report from Alli
KBA. Well, the Rockets got a lot more organized with coach Eay Udoka and their veteran additions, including point guard Fred Van Vleet, who said it’s just having that poise and presence to slow things down and get guys where they need to be. Rain it in, get some structure, and maximize these guys potential. Ba Ally, a great floor general. Thanks for that. The score now all even 10 points for him. Nice shot from Butler making himself a threat from downtown. Thompson outside. They set the pick. Pass to Durant from deep. Jimmy Butler with a rebound.
The defense just giving him the easy look there. He’s not going to miss that. Green with a screen on Een. And here is Green. Nice assist and nice finish. Solid play all the way around.
Green’s got six.
A big part of his game offensively. Green fantastic at the pick and roll game.
Holiday finds Smith. Here’s Thompson. Outside. Holiday. Pass to Durant. Smith with it. Green covering. Durant inside. Hey, shooting the ball well. He’s five for nine in the game. If you feed KD, this man is going to do this all night long. Outside Moody. Pass to He Green with a screen on Durant. He from outside. offensive rebound and it’s Green missing.
And you don’t see that every day. Usually he’ll convert when he gets that close to the rim. And Thompson gets it to go. The Warriors trailing. And here’s Pajki still without a bucket. And it’s healed missing. And he almost made them regret defending him so loosely to the inside. It’s tipped. Pass to Holiday. Thompson against Heel. Thompson passes to Een. Thompson scanning the floor over Heel. Thompson shot is off. Normally he drains that. [Applause] Oh, sweet move. It’s hauled in by Houston. Smith outside. Pass to Een outside. Durant outside. Een. Oh, nice fake, but the layup’s off the mark. And the Warriors shooting 44% to start this ball game. Heel passes to Moody [Applause] down low to end the drought and a twohanded jam. When Butler is cleared for takeoff, just get off the runway. Houston has gone two of five from deep outside Durant. 54 seconds left in the first and the basket by Holiday.
You don’t want to let him get into a rhythm from out there. Warriors trail by three. Pass to Moody. Back to Pajimski. And that’s good. His first bucket of the game. That’s been the story of their offense so far. getting a number of looks from point blank range. Outside E. Pass to Thompson. Now here’s Durant. The basket’s good. Off the assist from Thompson. Durant’s got 14.
Oh, just beautiful poetry in motion. It is so fun watching Kevin Durant shoot the rock. Now here’s Pajki. He’s covered closely. Really left him alone that time. 15 points in the game. Here’s Thompson. Fires from way outside. Oh, and the release was before the buzzer, but it’s off target. It’s a tie game here in Houston. And we’ll be back right after this. And this has been a fairly close game through the first quarter. We’ll see what happens here in the second. And taking a look at Houston’s performance here, guys. What have they been doing or not doing? Well, it’s simple. When you can dominate the boards at both ends, you can control the second chance touches
in rebounding numbers, sometimes we overlook them, but they can have a big effect on the outcome.
Well, Grant, you played on some very tight-knit teams. Talk to us about chemistry.
Well, BA, you know, in some sports, chemistry is not a big issue, but in basketball, it is huge. You have to trust and believe in your teammates, and it has to be a unit, not five separate individuals. On the floor for the Warriors, we’ve got Trace Jackson Davis. Stephen Curry is out there with Moses Moody. And it’s post in at the five roaming the paint. Love how selfless he is setting brick screens like this. Plays like that right there are what help create easy scoring opportunities. And so it’s Houston with it. The Warriors getting their last shot to go. Finny Smith shot is off. And there’s the lob. The great read between those two guys. The defense didn’t stand a chance. BA,
these two teammates right here, Grant, they are connected. Holiday against Curry. Holiday passes to Finny Smith to the paint. Here’s Shenun. Ooh, basket interference. Van Vleet checked in for Houston. The Warriors lead by four. Curry with it. Outside. Moody. Pass to Jackson Davis. Get it. together. Back to Moody. Een comes with a double. Here’s Santos from downtown. It’s rebounded by Shangun. Given his range, you’d expect him to capitalize on that opening
down low. [Music] Can’t hit from in close. The Warriors have got two of three shots to go in the second. Pass to Jackson Davis to the inside. Here’s Post. Oh, and makes it with the kiss. And the Warriors lead by six. Sees his man, threads the pass inside. Excellent teamwork outside. Holiday [Applause] to the middle. Deflects the pass. Van Fleet against Curry. Pass to Moody. Close in. Moses Moody.
I like the intention, the focus, finding a way to make it work inside.
And so it’s Van Vleet with it. He brings it up for the Rockets. Nothing on offense from them yet in this second quarter. Will it go [Music] back to Finny Smith? Now Holiday inside. Here’s Shenun. and Shane Goon throw it down.
Hey, kept it simple. No reason to get fancy right now. Ba.
Yeah, he’s just looking to find shots and produce for his team. Now, here’s Curry. Six-point game. Wow. Curry takes the hit and finishes inside.
Not just a jump shooter. Curry is so creative at figuring out little ways to score inside.
And we’ve got a timeout called by Eime Udoka. He’s going to talk it over with his guys. Heat. [Applause] Heat. [Applause] and Houston making a change here. Thompson’s checked in. Green’s checked in for the Warriors. Pajimski comes in for Santos. Rockets trail by eight. Ben Fleet. The pass to Shenun. And here is Thompson outside. Finny Smith. [Applause] And almost four minutes gone in the second quarter of play. The Rockets with another miss. And how about Brandon Pajimky, Richard? When he’s given the minutes, he can stuff the stat sheet. Yeah, even when it comes to his rebounding, BA, that’s the result of great heart, great hustle, and great timing. His teammates feed off his energy.
Here’s Post. Here’s Pajki. And again, it’s Golden State just continuing to pile it on, refusing to let up.
If he has space in the mid-range, he’ll let it fly. Doesn’t matter if the score is tied or they are up big.
Now here’s Shenon. He has seven. Back to Finny Smith. Van Vleet outside. [Applause] over Curry and the basket by Van Vleet. And clearly from mid-range, Van Vleet seems pretty comfortable. As long as he likes the angle, that’s a shot he can make. And a deep three from Curry. It’s rebounded by Shangun. Shangon’s got four rebounds now. And he’s going for the oop here. And the slam dunk by Thompson. Oh, Amen Thompson. Incredible verticality outside. Pajki [Applause] pass to Moody now. Here’s Green. Back to Moody to the middle. Here’s Curry. The Rockets pull it in. Now here’s Van Vleet outside. E back to Van Vleet. [Applause] Nice move
and he got the whistle on the way up. So he’ll be headed to the line for a pair. It’s going to go on Moses Moody.
And the defense is all over Van Vleet inside, but he sticks with it and wins a trip to the line for his efforts. Take a break. Take a break. Two shots. [Applause] The first one falls. You know, Grant and Van Vleet, they’ve got a guy who’s been through everything in this league.
Yeah, BA Van Vleet’s seen it all. He’s won a championship. He’s been in the All-Star game. He’s been on a last place team. No wonder nothing seems to phase him. Kevin Durant, he’s checked in for the Rockets. Jimmy Butler’s checked in for the Warriors. Healed comes in for Moody. Both free throws good from Van Vleet. You know, it’s hard to understate the value Van Vleet brings to this team. Richard,
when you look back at Toronto’s championship in 2019, he made some huge plays. When the moment got big, he came through and came out on top.
Now, here’s Thompson. Give him eight. Pass to Durant. [Applause] Thompson outside. And he’s going to the line for two. The officials saw contact while he was going up.
The sheer size of Thompson makes it difficult for defenders to match up well against him.
And a chance for a moment to check out the scoring breakdown for the Warriors.
So far, they haven’t had to force anything. They’re swinging the ball around and turning good passing into points.
And we’ve also got to talk about those threes dropping for them. We’ll see if they can’t keep up the momentum from long range. That free throw is good from Thompson. And what I like about Thompson along with the highlevel athleticism, he has a highlevel feel for the game. He makes one of two that time. The Warriors lead by three.
He from outside sinks the tray. He’s got his first bucket of the game and he’s on the board for three. And that’s what Heield is paid to do. Stretch the floor for this offense. Pass to Durant. Shangun a screen on heel down low. It’s stolen by Green. Here’s Curry all the way to the rim. Curry understanding where he needs to be. Curry way out ahead that time.
The Rockets have got three of six shots to go here in the second quarter. Outside Durant finds Durant. Here’s the three. sinks it again. That’s his seventh made field goal in 11 tries. When he gets a quality look like this at the perimeter, he can almost be automatic. [Applause] Back to Heel. Shoots over Duran. And it’s heel missing. And so it’s Durant who brings up the ball for Houston. Thompson outside. Here’s East. No good from outside. The Warriors lead by five. To the inside and the bucket counts and he is on his way to the line. He’ll try to make it a three-point play. So far he’s made all of his shots at the foul line going four for four. So for the Rockets, Clint Capella comes in for Alper and Shenun and Finny Smith subbed in for Een Moody’s checked in for the Warriors. [Applause] Rockets trail by eight outside. Finny Smith up top. Durant the three. Pajimsky grabs the board. And I’m surprised that didn’t go down. I mean, I’m sure he is too. Back to Heel. Oh, a clear foul there on the missed shot. So, he’ll get a pair at the line. Fearless play from Butler. Defenses should know he’s going to try and draw a foul while shooting.
And he’s gone one for one in the game so far at the line. [Applause] And he knocks down the first one. and he can’t hit the second. Rockets trail by nine. Thompson passes to Durant. Durant powers through the contact to finish inside.
Just too much to handle. Durant noted by the bump.
And Steve Kerr calls timeout here. Coach wants to speak to his guys, maybe alter some of the game plan. [Applause] [Applause] [Applause] Heat. [Applause] Heat. The Warriors lead by seven. Outside Moody. Pass to Pajimski. Back to Moody. The ball’s knocked loose. Stolen by Thompson gives us a chance to catch up with Alli Leforce.
BA Fred Vanble Vbleet said, “I’ve been a leader on pretty much every team that I’ve ever played for. I’m a leader in life. It’s just something you either have or you don’t. Something you got to work at. Some guys will gravitate towards it, some won’t.” Brian, is it that simple? Well, I think most of his teammates value what he has to say, for sure. Now, here’s Thompson. He’s got nine. And here’s Van Vleet. And it’s in there now. Just a five-point Warrior lead. Well, Van Vleet likes to work up close and personal at the basket. Always ready to take it inside. Outside. Moody. Thompson pulls it in. Thompson’s got four rebounds now. I like how Thompson put pressure on the D, taking it strong near the hole. And this is his second trip to the line tonight. [Applause] Take a break. Take a break. Two shots. That free throw is good from Thompson. Jenon checked in for Houston. Smith comes in for Finny Smith. He’s perfect from the line this time. The Warriors lead by three. Here’s Pajimski. Jimmy Butler on the attack. Oh, he gets it to go. Seven of 13 now. This is Butler at his best. Being aggressive, attacking with confidence, and scoring with physicality. Thompson with a screen to the paint. Oh, and the jam by Thompson. That’s unreal. I mean, Thompson, that was going to hit his head on the rim one day. Oh. There’s a minute 54 left to play in the first half of basketball. The three is up. It’s held in by Houston. Vanble Vleet with it. And it’s heel picking him up. The three from Thompson. Good. And Van Vleet gets the assist. Van Vleet’s got three assists now in this one. And this is big for Thompson’s confidence. He needs to keep hitting from downtown. Now here’s Pajki. Changen with a double team. Pass to Pajimsky. [Applause] Here’s Moody for three. Oh, the smooth three from Moody. It’s turned into a showdown here. Dueling from distance. Take that, he says. I see your three and I’ll raise you another three
for three. Durant and the rebound goes to the Warriors. Green’s got six rebounds in the game. Going inside and he goes strong with the one-handed jam. You see how effective Butler is driving inside. The combination of muscle and athleticism is tough to stop. Van Fleet scanning the floor. [Applause] Clock at six. Pass to Thompson. Oh, and the jam by Thompson. You know, inside is where Thompson excels and the concentration allowing him to finish there. 3 seconds separating the shot and game clocks. Oh, Durant with a steal. If they take their time, this will be the final possession of a quarter.
Yeah, it’s all about clock management with these situations. Let’s see how it plays out. Nice ball movement there. Delivered the pass right on time from deep three-point land. No good on the buzzer beater. It’s a tie game here in Houston. And don’t go away. After the break, we’ll see you right back here for the start of quarter number three. Oh [Music] man. [Music] We’ve got second half action for you. And if the next couple of quarters are similar to the first, this one could go down to the last possession. It has been one outstanding game from Jimmy Butler. They’ve leaned on him to provide a lot of offense, and that’s how he likes it. He always wants to be a go-to guy for them. I’m sure he’ll be calling for the ball even more in this half. Smith and Shingun play together in the front court. Amen Thompson out there with Fred Van Vleet and it’s Durant in at the three and that’s the group for Eme Udoka as we begin the second half. He has bounced around for a while now but he’s still a deadly shooter. Richard Heield is the definition of a shooter for hire. He’s a mercenary when he’s on the floor. He’s looking to pull up from deep. That’s what he’s paid to do. He’s been an elite shooter his whole career. [Applause] No good on the free throw.
Guys like Buddy Hill, knock down shooters, they are in high demand around the league. He hits the second from the line. And hey, he did just enough to get the lead. That’s what’s most important.
The Rockets trail. [Applause] Thompson with it. Pass to Van Vleet. Thompson. A screen on Curry. Here’s Van Vleet. Smith outside. Outside. Durant. Just five on the clock. Over healed. Durant. No good. And so it’s Curry with it. He brings it up for Golden State. They’ve led by as much as 10. Heel finds Curry. Can’t get it to drop. Ooh, excellent D there from Smith for three. Durant and Houston. Another three. So fluid off the dribble. Sometimes Durant is just impossible to stop. And for those tuning in, we’re about a minute into this second half. Inside, here’s healed. And that comes off the assist by Green. Green’s got four assists in the game. Keeping pace here. That’s an excellent move inside. Van Vleet. The pass to Smith outside. Durant. [Applause] Shenon. A screen on heel. Durant with another miss. The Warriors shooting around 53%. A nice number. Oh, Butler getting aggressive. He may not have that traditional power forward build, but his bounce, well, that kind of levels the playing field. Pass to Thompson. Durant with it. Back to Thompson. Now Smith. There’s the triple. Sinks it from distance. And the Rockets lead by one. This is Smith’s game. Set him up and he’ll knock him down. Back to Green. Now here’s Heel. Guarded by Durant. Green. A screen. Healed for three. It’s rebounded by Shangon. And that’s exactly how tightly you have to guard him every time he steps to the arc. He’s just that good. Pandle finds Shenun. [Applause] Shenun. A screen on heel. Count it. And the foul. It’s going to go on Draymond Green. And attacking with reckless abandon. Somehow Thompson able to get through. He’s gone three of four from the line. [Applause] And that one misses. Warriors trail by three [Applause] now. Curry blocked. And so it looks like the Warriors will retain possession here. And now it’s time to take another view of that huge swat. What a play. I mean, that’ll have the offense thinking twice about taking shots in his presence. And Steve Kerr calls timeout. A moment to rest and confer on the game plan. One of the stories here, Kevin Durant, he’s getting it done today.
With the way he’s cooking, they have to find a way to run him off his spot more. [Applause] Heat. Heat. [Applause] [Applause] Heat. [Applause] Heat. [Applause] Heat. [Applause] Heat. [Applause] Healed against Durant. Pass to Curry. Six to shoot. The three is up.
Curry rises up and hits the three.
And what kind of defense was that? You can’t give up wide open threes like that. What are you doing? Now here’s Thompson defended by Pajimky. [Applause] Shenun against Green. Thompson outside. Shangon the screen from the strike. The Warriors pull it in.
I think the defense will live with him taking mid-range jumpers, but maybe just a little bit more resistance. Oo, excellent D there from Smith. Houston has gone two of three from outside so far in the third quarter. Thompson outside and a great assist by Van Fleet as that one goes.
Thompson’s got 22 points.
You see there, Thompson does a good job of sneaking into the lane and finishing outside. Pajki against Heel. Pass to Curry. [Applause] from outside the ark. It’s rebounded by Shangun.
Shangun’s got his seventh rebound of the game with that last one to the inside and Shangon throw it down. You know, one thing about Van Vleet, he makes the right decision most of the time. Warriors trail by four. Outside Pajki pass to Curry. [Applause] Green with a screen on Van Vleet. Curry takes it in. Oh, Thompson with the block. Decent reach and solid instincts allowing Thompson to get a hand on it. Durant finds Smith. Van Vleet with it. Now Shangun, he’s covered by Curry from seven and there’s Shenun. That one’s good on the assist by Van Vleet. Now it’s a six-point Houston lead. And guys, let’s get your take on the hustle stats for Houston. They’ve been just suffocating on defense the whole game. Look at their shot blocking. The opposition doesn’t have any room to breathe. They’ve also been showing a standout play on the fast break. Working as a team to create easy opportunities. Here’s Green. Oh, and there’s the whistle on the shot. So, two free throws for him coming up. That one on Shenon. I like when Green looks to score. He’s good at putting defenses in a bind.
It’ll be his fourth time going to the line in this game.
Take a break. Take a break. Two shots. Free throw good. Green Moody’s checked in for healed. and both free throws good for Green. The Rockets lead by four. Now here’s Van Vleet. 11 points in the game. Smith outside. Shenon in the post working on Green. Offensive rebound and Shenun gets it to go.
That’s a blue collar bucket right there. Grown man basket. Putting in the work. Got a second chance to score.
And so it’s Curry with it. He brings it up for the Golden State Warriors. Down low. Thompson with a steal. pass to Smith. And here is Shenun. Green covering for three. Smith. The Warriors pull it in. Green’s got his eighth rebound here tonight. Curry from deep three-point land. And again, it’s the Warriors missing. This has not been his best quarter.
Yeah, he needs to mix things up on the offense. He simply just can’t keep missing shots at this rate because he’s destroying his teammates. Now here’s Moody. Five points in the game beyond the ark and again no good by Golden State and it’s Houston’s ball. They’re on a 13-5 run. Well Richard with the relocations and the floor he covers. Curry is still an anomaly with his conditioning. No, he’s got an offseason program that would make other NBA stars tap out, including myself. His conditioning is amongst the best of all time. It wears on you as a defender. Here’s Green after the basket by Houston. Pass to Moody. [Applause] Green against Durant to the middle and he takes that one up and powers it through. Now, that’s how you use the screen right there. And it leads to a thunderous finish. That was nice.
Yeah, you like the pick to set up the open shot, but when it leads to a doubt, okay, even better. He’ll take it.
And a foul called on the way up. So, he’ll take two from the free throw line.
And the big X factor Van Valle brings to the team is leadership. He’s very talented at setting a good tone out on the floor and organizing his guys. And this will be his third and fourth free throws of the game here. That free throw good from Van Vley. Even checked in for Kevin Durant. both free throws good from Vanley.
And it’s a luxury to have a great shooter like him at the line. Very rarely see a miss. Launches a three. Oh, Butler with the confidence from the perimeter.
What are you doing? You can’t give a player like him that much space. Come on now. Smith outside. Screen by Een. Fires it. The offensive rebound and Shang Goon throw it down. Can you say immediate entry into the highlight reel? Woo! What a duck, PA.
It’s showtime now, man. They’ve built up a lead and they’re starting to rub it in. And here is Green. 11 points in the game. Outside Moody. Five. Van Vleet. The pass to Shangun. Shenun. The screen. Thompson goes in and slammed it home and a foul. A chance at another point at the line. It’s going to go on Draymond Green. So for the Rockets, Durant, he’s checked in for Smith and Holiday subbed in for Van Vleet. [Applause] [Music] [Applause] Warriors trail by eight. [Applause] And the Warriors with another three. Got to fight harder to get over those screens. Yeah, as soon as these guys feel contact, they are just disappearing like they’re not even there. You got to show some fire and keep defending. And man, is he in a zone right now. Seems like he can’t miss. [Applause] He’s covered by Holiday with the step back [Applause] and close on the shot even with the foul. Now two free throws. Playing with passion, Butler is never scared of a challenge. A wing who battles inside. He’s made two of his three attempts tonight. Shooting two and he makes a first. And the Warriors making a switch here. Santos has checked in. and that’s good as he hits both shots. And so Thompson will bring it up for the Rockets. It’s a five-point game. Here’s Shenun gets it to go. He’s now nine for 11 on the night. saw the angles and led him right to the hoop with that pass. Golden State has gone three of seven from deep so far in the third quarter. Pass to Moody. There’s a minute 54 left in the third quarter. Jackson Davis with the bucket. Not putting his head down. He continues to produce with the team trailing. Houston leading by five. Durant the pass to Holiday. And here’s Shenun outside. Durant. Let’s go with a three. They get it again. Een finds Durant. Now Thompson over to the left wing. Een. Here’s Shenun. And he was fouled while in the act of shooting. So he’ll take two free throws. I like that. I mean, some physical play inside. He’s not about to give up any easy baskets.
Yeah. And this is his second and third free throws tonight. That free throw good from Shenun. Finny Smith checked in for the Rockets. Both free throws good from Shingun. A minute 22 left in the third quarter. Up top, Jackson Davis. [Applause] Butler right to the heart. How talented is Butler? I mean, just so adept at carving out some space inside and converting. [Applause] Thompson outside. Penny Smith a screen. Thompson goes in. Oh, and he took a hard foul on the shot. So, he’ll head to the line to shoot a pair. That’s on Jimmy Butler. No good on that one. And Houston making a change here. Van Bleach checked in. [Music] That’s off as well. So he misses both. Warriors trail by five. Fires the three and Jimmy Butler good for three. He’s got 36 points.
Unselfish offense leads to Butler getting something in rhythm. Outside E. [Applause] Benlet outside Shangun. The screen lets it go from 11. And the rebound goes to the Warriors. About 3 seconds between the shot clock and the game clock. They’ve been taking care of business, especially at the offensive end where they’ve been totally in sync.
So, it’ll be two free throws. He was fouled in the active shooting. That one on Shangun. Shoot two. [Applause] And he drops a first. [Applause] hits one then misses the second attempt from the line. [Applause] Vanleet on the wing. Moody defends. [Applause] Van Vleet outside down low Changen. Good work defensively by Jackson Davis. And we’ve just finished the third quarter. What a tight game we’ve got going. It’s Houston up by one. After a quick break, we’re coming right back with the start of the fourth quarter. And a worthy candidate tonight as we take a look at our State Farm assist of the game.
Yeah, just shredding the defense with that feed. Zero chance to stop that. That’s an unguardable pass. Flat out. Give him credit for possessing that type of vision. Three tense quarters behind us, one more to go. Thanks for being with us as we get ready for the fourth. So on the floor for Golden State, they’ve got Moody. He’s out there with Stephen Curry and it’s Jackson Davis in at the four spot
and the basket by Van Vleet.
Yeah, what a touch on the shot from Van Vleet. Just easing it into the hoop. Van Vleet against Curry to tie it up. Thompson pulls it in. Thompson’s got rebound number seven tonight. Outside E. [Applause] Oh, it’s stolen away. Pass to Santos from the ark. It’s rebounded by Houston. Van Gleet outside. Here’s Capella. Good work defensively by Jackson Davis. Warriors trail by three. Outside Moody. Now here’s Curry. Out to the right wing. Five on the clock. Pass to Jackson Davis. Here’s Post. Lets a three fly. It’s hauled in by Houston. Thompson’s got rebound number eight here already in the game to the paint. Nice shot by Finny Smith and the Rockets lead by five. It’s winning time and that’s a winning play. [Applause] Here’s Moody [Applause] outside. Curry lets it go from deep. Thompson pulls it in. Thompson’s got nine rebounds in the game. Boy, he’s getting it done. Pass to Eon. Lays it up and banks it in. And now a seven-point Houston lead. This has been the story of the game. A battle fought on offense.
Yeah, but I think it’s going to come down to who can get the stops down the stretch because that’s who’s going to come away with this one.
On the wing, Thompson. We’re in the fourth quarter here. Just under two and a half minutes gone by. Capella, the pass to Van Vleet. And here’s Een. [Applause] fires top of the key and off the left side of the rim. It swirls in for him. Pan Bleach gotten four this quarter. Looks like they’re gaining some confidence here in crunch time. Building out this lead brick by brick. They have taken a very methodical approach.
Back to Curry and he hits the jumper. Yeah, the sweet looking jumper of Steph. It just looks so pure coming out of his hands. [Applause] Thompson with it. [Applause] And there’s the drive and the slam dunk by Thompson.
And after putting it down, he dangles from the rim a little. Man, that’s borderline taunting right there, Grant. They’re playing with a certain swagger right now. Now here’s Curry. Can’t connect from long distance. And as long as he keeps missing from deep, the deep will keep letting him fire away. He’s just off from range right now. They get the rebound. Thompson. Oh, and he got fouled on his way up. He’ll head to the line to shoot two. [Applause] Good job. He’s off on the first. Smith. He’s checked in for Finny Smith. The Warriors also with a sub. Pajimskis checked in for Santos. Good on the second one. Now Pajimski [Applause] pass to Curry. Here’s [Applause] Post. Fires from deep and Curry is good for three. Curry’s got five points now in the quarter. This is what it’s been since halftime. Remarkable results from downtown.
In the modern NBA, you have to hit threes to win games. And they’ve made that adjustment since the break. Now here’s Thompson. Screen by Capella. Thompson passes to Capella. Now here’s Pajki defended by Thompson. The three. Curry shot is off. The Rockets lead by seven. Here’s Smith and count the basket. He was fouled and he’s going to the line for one more. Houston making some changes. Alper and Shenun comes in for Clint Capella. And it’s Durant in for Thompson. [Music] And so it’s Curry with it. He brings it up for the Warriors. Trailing by 10. Pass to Pajimsky. That drops and it comes off an assist from Curry. Just great awareness from Curry. So good at reading the floor and finding his open teammates. Outside Durant. Smith outside. Here’s Shenun. Houston with another miss. Warriors trail by eight. Outside. Curry. pass to Pajimsky and it’s thrown down hard with both hands. Now that’s how you use the screen right there and it leads to a thunderous finish. That was nice.
Yeah, you like the pick to set up the open shot. But when it leads to a dump, okay, even better. He’ll take it.
Now here’s Smith from behind the ark. Gets the three to fall. Smith’s got nine points here in the second half. And Smith has such confidence rising up from deep. This is what’s going to make him so dangerous here in the pros. Jenon with a steal. Now here’s Durant pass to Smith. Now here’s Shenun [Applause] deflected and he’s able to get it back and he gets it to go again. He’s connected on 10 of 15 now. Warriors trail by 11. Here’s Curry. Oh, Stephen Curry, shot maker extraordinaire. Yeah, he was able to sneak it to the rim. Had enough room to get just like an easy layup. [Applause] Ben’s lead against Curry
from the baseline and the Rockets tack on two more. Here’s Curry. [Applause] It’s tipped and putting his length to good work. Smith gets aggressive and finds the block. Houston leading by nine and Emeoka has called timeout. He was quite emphatic demanding the timeout clearly wanting to address strategy with his team. [Applause] [Music] [Applause] Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. [Applause] [Applause] [Applause] Thompson. He’s checked in for Houston. And the Warriors making a switch here. All right, let’s check in with Alli Leforce.
Well, over the break, I listened to Eime Udoka’s huddle. He was clapping in the huddle, saying to his guys, loving the effort right now. Keep the intensity on them. Leave no doubt in their mind that this game is ours, guys. Back to you
and Ally. Thanks. Now, here’s Green. The shot by Pajimky. No good.
And the shooter had very little space on that attempt. I’m sure they’ll think twice about shooting against him next time. Shenun passes to Thompson. Oh, and the jam by Thompson. That is Thompson’s game. Rocking the rim and giving his team some energy. Curry looking it over. Healed for three. It’s rebounded by Shangun.
And so Shangun will bring it up for the Rockets. Here’s Durant. Goes back up and Shinun gets it to go. Shing Hun’s got four points this quarter
and just not letting up at all. I mean, you have to love this approach. You want to get the ball to the guys who make plays. This is when good players really get after it. He can sense that they’re reeling and he’s going to put his foot on the pedal.
Now here’s Green. Six on the shot clock. Oh, that’s going to be too many steps. Gets the whistle on the travel. We’ve seen more than a few miscues from them tonight. And if they want to come back in this game, look, they got to clean up those mistakes. [Applause] Curry against Van Bleet. Left side. Durant launches it. Warriors with the rebound. The Jimski’s got rebound number five here tonight. Here’s Curry. Curry at the rim.
Got the defender on his heels right there and Curry capitalized. What a finish. Thompson passes to Shenun. [Applause] Van Fleet outside. Back to Shenun. Rebounded by Green. Green’s got rebound number nine now. What an effort here tonight. and he’ll draw the foul. He’ll head to the line for two. [Applause] Shooting two. [Applause] First one falls for him. And so he hits both. And here is Thompson. and he has been an absolute maestro for them.
The next assist will be his 10th. This is why guys love to play alongside him.
Now here’s Van Vleet from 11 ft away and he gets the jumper to drop. Van Vleet’s got 21 points in the game.
And when Van Vleet kicks it up a notch, get out of his way. Keep letting him do his thing. Green with a screen on Smith to the inside. Shane with a steel up top. Smith. Van Fleet outside and the three off target. Warriors trail by 11. Inside. Nice dish. And the layup goes down. He’s got 40 now. Well, I guess we could give them credit for not getting discouraged. They’re still playing hard. He’s doing his job out there. Pass to Shenun over Green. Lets it go. Shenun no good. And the Warriors shooting 47% since the fourth quarter started. Here’s Kimky. Rockets with a rebound. We’ve got 123 left in the fourth quarter. To the middle. Here’s Durant. Oh, Durant buries it through contact
inside. Durant’s scoring instinct take over, helping him find a path to that difficult shot. Here’s Curry. The layup off target. Houston leading by 11. Nothing left to do but to watch the clock tick towards zero. Nice victory here for the Rockets. A pair of tremendous rebounding teams. And these guys played a little harder tonight and that was the edge they needed. And it was a reliably solid performance from one of their key guys. A tremendous game for Amen Thompson.
He was just dropping dimes left and right out there. Any opening that the D provided, he exploited it and found his teammates.
Now here’s Curry. Drives to the hoop, banked it in off the glass. 36 seconds left to play in the fourth. Durant the pass to Shenun. And here’s Van Vleet. The three ball. Yes. And it’s Shenun picking up the assist. And the Rockets lead by 15. Stepping up and nailing an important shot to put this away.
And that score probably slams the door for any wouldbe comebacks. And look, they put this one to bed. And so it’s the Rockets taking care of business in this one. This one was a fun one to watch. They were clearly in the driver’s seat down the stretch.
They really were, BA. They played with great intensity on both ends of the floor and they didn’t allow their mistakes to get the better of them. Well, now a minute to check in with Ally Leforce. She’s courtside. Hey Ally
Katie, you were able to clamp down defensively.
Ally, thank you as always. Well, folks, that’s going to do it for now for Richard Jefferson, Grant Hill, and Ally Leforce. This is Brian Anderson. Thank you for being with us. So long, everybody. All the talk, Greg, leading up to this one has been about the impact of the back court.
And that’s where it all starts. When you have a confident and competent backcourt, it just opens up a lot of things for you offensively.
And now the Golden State Warriors starters. In the back court, we’ll see Curry and PJsky. Jimmy Butler is out there with heel and it’s Green and at the pivot spot manning the middle.
Boy, that mid-range Jay from KD can put people to sleep, boy. Tough to guard him at all three levels. Curry and it’s blocked by Shingun. And the ball goes out of bounds. Last touch by Shingun. And we got to take a second look to admire that outstanding block. And an early swat like that can really set the tone. Now the shooters will be feeling his presence. Here’s Pajki. Golden State moving it around. Curry can’t get it to go.
Boy, they dodged one there, guys. I mean, he got the wideopen look that he wanted, just didn’t knock it down. Shangon finds Thompson. KD on the wing. level. Pass to Van Vleet. Six to shoot. Here’s the three and Kevin Durant good for three. Durant’s got five now.
And that bucket by KD is why he is so lethal. Durant can straight up save possession.
Now here’s Curry. Deflects the pass and the basket is good. got it to go through on the contact. So, a free throw coming up. A great opportunity for a three-point play. And he’ll be shooting his first free throw of the game here.
And he was 73% from the line a season ago. An average number in that regard. [Applause] break since reaching five consecutive NBA finals. The Warriors have missed the playoffs three of the past five years. And to be fair, they did go 46 and 36 last season. They were 10 games over 500 last year. So they weren’t a bad team, but Golden State doesn’t just expect to be in the playin. They want to be a contender.
That is what Shangon brings this team. The ability to turn misses into makes. Doing the dirty work down low and Jimmy Butler good for three.
And the lack of effort to fight over the screen there makes that an easy shot.
Well, I’m going to credit the screen. I mean that’s a good strong pick he lays there. Now here is Smith active and Valle out to Thompson inside. It’s tipped. It’s stolen by Green. Now the Warriors moving it up. Finished off the break. Five points in the game.
You got to tag Butler in transition. and he’s got the quickness and athleticism to shred defenses in the open floor. Back to Van Vleet. It’s Durant on the wing. Good. And Van Vleet gets the assist. Durant’s got eight points.
Boy, he is looking confident. Love how they’re using him so far.
And you know what? They’re going to keep using him. I mean, he’ll be the centerpiece of their offense today. You can bank on that.
And we’ve got a timeout called by Steve Kerr. He’s made the decision he wants to huddle up with his guys. [Applause] Heat. [Applause] Heat. [Applause] Heat. Heat. [Applause] Heat. [Applause] [Applause] Heat. [Applause] Heat. Heat. [Applause] [Applause] And here in the first approaching three minutes played outside Curry three-pointer. Shenun with the rebound. Houston’s gone two of two from three-point range here in the first quarter. [Music] Smith the pass to Durant over healed and it’s Durant that time on the assist by Smith. That’s 10 points for Kevin Durant.
This is what puts KD in elite company. He’s so good at catch and shoot. Curry kicks to heel pass to Green. with the fadeaway
and the Warriors miss again.
And that’s really just not heads up basketball. Don’t try a fadeaway when nobody’s guarding you
and Thompson gets it to go.
We see this night in and night out. Thompson uses his size and elevation to make tough shots in the paint. Now here’s Curry. He has yet to score. They need this. And Jimmy Butler good for three.
And he’s not going to miss that sort of an opportunity from deep. Van Vleet against Curry. It’s stolen by Green to the paint and foul on the shot. So he’ll get a chance at the line. Red Van Bule picks one up. Continuing to work on refining his craft. Butler puts in a great amount of time, maybe more than most. And he makes the first GA. If you look back at the Rockets history, so many all-time greats have spent time there. Yeah, it’s an impressive list, right? Elijah Juan, Moses Malone, Calvin Murphy, and Harden. Houston’s well represented in the Hall of Fame. He hits one, then misses the second attempt from the free throw line. And Clark, the Rockets, just one of a handful of franchises to win back-to- back NBA titles. Can you believe that, Kevin? It was roughly 30 years ago that the Rockets did that. Led by Hakee Elijahan, perhaps the best player in the league at that time. Of course, this was while Michael Jordan was retired from the NBA the first time.
Now heel following Durant’s three-point attempt. Here’s Van Vleet. Still yet to score. Down low. Here’s Durant. And then Durant with the dunk.
What doesn’t Kevin Durant do? He’s showing us everything here. Outside Curry pass to Heield from downtown. Good. And Curry gets the assist.
Not sure what the defense was thinking. I mean, you can’t leave this guy open from deep. Van Vleet passes to Shenu. This one for three. That doesn’t go either for KD. Anzo Green will bring it up for the Warriors. They trail by one. [Applause] And that won’t go. Missing the go-ahead bucket. Here’s Van Vleet. No good off the front iron. The Warriors have gone just a shade under 50% from the field. Five of 11. A shot by Pajki. No good. Rockets have gone seven of 11 from the field to begin the game. The footnes in on the second chance points.
And those second chance points really become almost like bonus points when you can get them.
And we’ve got a timeout called by Steve Kerr looking for a breather. And maybe just one or two things to talk about. [Applause] Heat. Heat. [Applause] Heat up here. Heat. [Applause] Heat. [Applause] Tory Een’s checked in for the Rockets. [Applause] [Applause] They get a hand on it and stolen by Een. And they’re pushing it up. [Applause] Smith in the post still without a basket. Warriors trail by three. [Applause] Looks good. Is good. Bucket number four from the field. He’s taken only six shots.
The well put together Butler proving that he’s just a little too strong there. Not allowing the physical defense to stifle him at all.
Now here’s Durant. He’s got 12. Pass to Een. Just five on the clock. Three-pointer. The shots good from Smith and the Rockets lead by four. Plays the four, but he can really shoot it from deep. And when he lets it fly, that shows you the confidence he has in that shot. Here’s Healed. Chenun with the rebound. Houston’s gone three and six, 50% from deep so far tonight. Incredible for his age. The decision making of Shenun Ga is very impressive.
So calm when he sees a double coming. Reads and reacts with ease when he’s on the block or at the nail. Reminds you of a young Joic with how he sees the game.
Now here’s Green and out of bounds as the Rockets gain possession. Aaron Holidayiday has checked in for Alpine Shenu. The Warriors also with a sub. Moody’s checked in. Here’s Holiday. And now we’ve got some time to check in from the sidelines. What do you got for us, Da? Hey, Kevin. I caught up with coach Eay Adoka and we talked about facing off against Jimmy Butler and the coach said, “You have to compete. No one in the league plays harder than Jimmy. He’s a guy who gives his all on both ends. So, you can’t take one possession off. Jimmy Butler truly a two-way star, guys.
Thank you, David. Nobody better at getting inside and finding good looks. KD rarely forces anything and he usually gets the best shot available.
Here’s PMski. Still scoreless. [Applause] And oh boy, a lot of contact there, but he gets the call and will shoot two.
Oh, I like how Butler uses his body in the paint. Excellent at forcing the issue and getting the call close to the rack. And guys, what do you think about the offensive approach we’ve seen so far for Houston?
Everything working for them inside so far, guys. Tons of high quality shots that they’re knocking down inside. And we also have seen them continue to fire from deep with the results they’re seeing. You can understand why. Both good from the line that time. Here’s KD. 14 points for him. Outside Holiday. Pass to Smith. He hits the back iron and sinks the shot. Smith’s got five now.
Supreme confidence. Smith really stretches the floor with his ability to shoot.
They set the pick. It falls for his fifth field goal tonight. Now shooting five for eight. Yeah, another nice bucket down low. They’ve really been able to work the ball into the post effectively here so far.
E with it. Jackson Davis defending to the middle. Here’s Holiday. That’s tipped. [Applause] Richard guarded by Holiday. Plenty of space. It’s rebounded by Houston. And here’s Smith. He has five. Pass to Eon. Durant just inside the line. Misses the chippy right there.
Usually guys, he’s going to knock that one down from there. Proficient at operating in that medium range area. Some nice passing by Golden State here. Here’s Richard. No good there with the step back. Jay Rockets leading by four. Here’s Smith. The rebound by Post. Those are chances almost always you can rely on him to get you two points, but the D just enough to keep him out of rhythm.
Oh, Smith on the wing. There’s the three. Burries the long range jumper. Eight points for him. Hey, that quick release is what makes Smith so lethal in those catch and shoot situations. And looks like the illegal pick was set. Yep, that’s right. That’ll get their attention. and not the most common call you’ll see in the NBA, but hard to argue that pick wasn’t illegal.
Yeah, you know, the officials aren’t nearly as lenient as they used to be on that call. As a matter of fact, I know I got away with a lot of those in my playing days, but that was 40 years ago.
Catching up on the changes for Houston. Shenun’s checked in for Smith and Dorian Finny Smith subbed in for Kevin Durant. How about the bouncability of Shangon getting himself way up there. Now here’s Moody guarded by Holiday. Let’s go and misses it off the right side of the rim. How about that hard-nosed D in the paint right there. Nice job. Impressive work protecting the basket. He held his ground nicely on that one. Now here is Holiday scoreless thus far. Here’s Shangon off target there. That would have pushed the lead to double digits. About 7 seconds separating the shot and game clocks. There’s the pick from past the arc. It’s rebounded by Houston. Shingun’s got rebound number eight now on the night. Holiday looking for an opening. Pass to Shenun and some nice defense there to end the quarter. And so it’s Kevin Durant making headlines and highlights for the Rockets. He totaled 14 points in the quarter. He’s given them all the offense they need right now. Don’t go anywhere. We’ll be right back. And so far through one quarter, it’s been a lopsided game. We’ll see if that changes here in the second. And when you consider how the Rockets are doing, guys, you know, what are your thoughts? You got to credit their defense communicating, rotating, making plays on the ball.
They’ve got them rattled. It’s only the first quarter and already they’ve made enough big plays on defense to last really an entire game.
Clark, you had a chance to defend a lot of great scores in your time in the NBA. Yeah. And I did. They wore me out too, partner. I mean, I think the attitude of those guys stands out. Their relentlessness, the skill level obviously was there, but it was the relentless pursuit of the basketball and scoring opportunities. Bernard King, Larry Bird, Alex English, Marcus Johnson was near the tail end of his prime, but he was a problem, too. I mean, there were a number of guys in that. Kelly Trapfuca. Yeah, don’t make my head spin. So, on the floor for Golden State to begin this second quarter, Stephen Curry is out there with Moody. Then it’s Trace Jackson Davis. And it’s post in at center. Now here’s Moody. Nothing on the board. He is singlehandedly dropping the temperature in here with that cold streak.
And he’s got to find other ways to contribute then because his shot making is not happening right now. Here’s Shenun. They lead by their biggest margin of the game. Nine. Shenun with the screen for Shepard. Oh, good with the triple.
And he didn’t punish them for the weak coverage there, but they can’t count on him to continue missing.
It’s stolen by Een. to the inside. Here’s Finny Smith. And that’ll be two free throws coming up. Officials on the call with the foul. Finny Smith has a clear understanding of his role in this offense, including when to take charge and draw fouls. Take a break. Take a break. Two shots. That free throw missing.
The definition of a stretch for Finny Smith is a really valuable offensive player.
Houston making a switch here. Van Gle checked in. He hits the second from the line. Warriors trail by 10. Pass to Curry. They set the screen. Shoots over Van Fleet. Curry good. Working that in between area. Steph likes to keep the defense on its heels. Houston’s gotten fewer than half of their three-pointers to go down tonight. They’re four for nine. In the corner, it’s Een. Here’s Finny Smith. That three off the mark. The Warriors have gone one of three to start off the second quarter. Pass to Jackson Davis. His first shot coming late. That one’s in. His first shot this game. And so Van Vleet will bring it up for the Rockets. They’ve led by as much as 10. [Applause] And a little under two and a half minutes gone by here in the second quarter. Here’s Shenu. Six on the shot clock. Pass to Won Holiday inside the line and he wills that one in. Sinking right through off the back eye.
You know what? Sometimes something good can come out of a bad possession.
And we’ve got a timeout called by Steve Kerr. This will give him a chance to discuss some potential alterations. [Applause] [Applause] Yeah. [Applause] Heat. [Applause] Heat. Heat. [Applause] Heat. Heat. [Applause] [Applause] We’re just over two and a half minutes into the second quarter. Curry against Van Vleet for three. Oh, Curry so accurate from three-point range.
That’s Curry’s game. I mean, you can’t give him a sliver of daylight out there.
It’s time now to hear from our Hall of Fame reporter, David Aldridge. What’s the latest, David?
Kevin, the Rockets are making progress. Coach Mudoka said, “It doesn’t happen overnight. Changing habits and things like that takes time. Guys learn and grow at a different pace. My thing is getting us all on the same page. You’re not that far off, Kevin. They sure look like they’re building in the right direction,
David. They are. And some good vets have helped as well, and we thank you for that report. Here’s Jackson Davis outside for Curry. Trills the three-pointer. Curry’s got eight points off a pass. Steph Curry. That one is always going in or almost always going in. Now Vinnie Smith. Here’s Shenon. And as it goes out of bounds, Houston able to keep the ball here. Thompson, he’s checked in for the Rockets. And the Warriors making a change here. Pass to Van Vleet. Five to shoot. 4. And that one drops. Van Bleach got his second bucket.
Oh, tricky play by Van Bleet to beat the close coverage. Slipping pass there for the finish. Greg, what’s the key thing Fred Vanble Vleet brings to this offense?
I feel like he’s really a centering presence, Kevin. the guys can look to him to call the play to give them their orders and trust that he’s setting them up for success
and finish off by Finny Smith. And you can always count on Vanble to make the right play. He doesn’t make too many bad decisions when he’s got the ball in his hands.
Green passes to Kurt. [Applause] Here’s Post. Shangun covering. Pass to Pajki. [Applause] Shoots. Post misses the shot. Houston leading by nine. Here’s Thompson. The Warriors pull it in. Post has got four rebounds in this game. AJMsky on the wing. He’s covered by Johnson. [Applause] Right side. Green beyond the arc. Post misses the shot. Rockets have gotten a little under 50% of their second quarter shots to find the mark. Four of nine all told. [Applause] Shenun with the screen for Thompson. The shake pass to Shenun and a lot of contact on that one. So he’ll shoot two here. Smart move by Shangon sticking with his shot through the foul inside.
The Rockets shooting their third and fourth free throw attempts of the game.
And their numbers from the line last season, they’re good, just not great. About 77% as a team. Shooting two. First free throw is good.
The thing that stands out about Shangon is how crafty he is in the post. Excellent footwork and a lot of moves.
The Rockets making a switch here. Durant’s checked in. Jimmy Butler, he’s checked in for the Warriors. Buddy Heel comes in for Moody. That’s also good. So he hits both free throws. Warriors trail by 11. Green bounce pass and the foul on Tory Een. That’s foul number two for him. And now let’s take a look again at that incredible rejection.
And boy did he get up quick to reject that shot. That’s as fundamental as defense gets. Houston on D. They lead by 11, the largest margin of the game.
You know what, that passing lane wasn’t open for long. He closed it down in a heartbeat there to get the steal. And he’s got rocket shiplike takeoff. Thompson can flat out fly. Now here’s Green. Pass to Heield. Can they get it? Connects from three-point range. Heels got six. A very efficient range shooter. You expect Heel to take these shots. Now Een back to Durant. Shenun with a screen on heel. Nice spin off the left for him and in he’s got 16.
You know, he’s a good guy to have running that particular set. I mean, Durant is not a guy who makes a lot of mistakes in the pick and roll. [Applause] Pass to Curry, fires for three. Shenun with the rebound. Shenun’s got 11 rebounds in the game. Now here’s Thompson. Here’s Shenun. Locket six. Now here’s Van Vleet. Good. And the assist goes to Shangun. And the Rockets lead by 15.
And you have to appreciate the confidence. Vanble wastes no time shooting the rock when he is in that groove. Pass to Heield from deep. Buries it from three-point range. He’s got six points in the quarter.
How about doing from long range just going at each other?
Looks to me like there could be something personal taking place here.
Now here’s Shangon. Eight points for him. Thompson with it now. Green defending. Two free throws coming up and they call the shooting foul. And it goes on Draymond Green. And with his movement skills, Thompson routinely catches defenders out of position.
And Clark watching Amend Thompson, he is just a different kind of athlete.
He sure is, boy. Special as an athlete. And we’ve got some of the greatest athletes in the world across the NBA. He’s smooth. He’s explosive. He’s fluid, wellcoordinated. Seems like he just kind of floats in the air. It’s special to watch him do his thing. That free throw no good. So for the Rockets, Clint Cavella, he’s checked in for Shangun and Dorian Finny Smith subbed in for Tari Een. And the Warriors also making a change. Moody’s checked in. And he’s good on the second. Warriors trail by 13. [Applause] Pass to PMski. Down low. Stolen by Durant. And here’s the fast break. Durant leading the way. Straight to the bucket. Durant.
And the handles from Durant are downright filthy. using him to cut up the defense there with ease. And here is heel guarded by KDMKY with it. No scoring in this one. Golden State needs to get off a shot and the baseline jumper. No good. And it’s Chozer with the ball. He’ll bring it up for Houston. The lead is 15. And KD the bucket on the assist by Thompson. Thompson’s got his fourth assist in this one. Golden State’s gone an even 50% from three-point range in the second quarter. Four for eight. Pass to Green. [Applause] And Capella sends it back.
This is the real strength of Capella’s game now. Outstanding at using his length and athleticism to block shots.
Well timed pass and he goes straight to the bucket for the layup and the Rockets lead by 20.
When you allow good scorers to get uncontested shots at the rim, no wonder you’re losing.
You know, he should be getting extra attention from the defense, not less.
Oh, the officials are all over that one.
Clearly a foul. I mean, didn’t give him any choice but to blow the whistle. I mean, you got to play without fouling.
It’s his first trip to the line.
Had a success rate from the line last year of about 78%. And the first one at the line is good. Houston making some changes. Shenun comes in for Clint Cavella. And Smith’s subbed in for Dorian Finny Smith. So he gets them both. Rockets leading by 18. Pass to Shenun. Green with the block. No matter what night it is, Green seeks to intimidate and more often than not succeeds. Houston’s gone three of five beyond the arc since the start of the second quarter. Shenun great D that time from Green. Warriors trail by 18. Here’s Moody. Pass to Pajki. KD comes with the double team. takes a shot at the elbow and the jumper falls for him.
Excellent pass from Butler right there. That’s why he’s considered a team leader.
Houston’s gone downtown 13 times in this game and they’re just over 50%. Seven of 13 on threes near the three-point line. It’s Van Bleet off target from the wing.
Golden State’s gotten fond of that three-point shot here in the second quarter. Four of nine. There’s 126 left in the first half.
Oh, tough play by Butler.
You know, Butler is simply a winner. He knows exactly how to get himself going offensively. Smith outside, pass to Thompson and contact on the shot. So, he’ll be shooting free throws here
and really the defense fouling there to prevent the layup, but that’s exactly what you need to do.
It is. I mean, no reason to back off and give him the layup. I mean, much better off making him go to the line. [Applause] The first free throw is good. [Applause] That one falls. So he hits both of them. Warriors trail by 16. And Durant comes to help. Healed finds Moody. Off target from outside. The Rocket shooting very well. 56% from the floor here in the second quarter. And Durant gets it to go.
No fear or hesitation from KD. He’s able to hit from anywhere.
The Warriors shooting has been a little ragged. Just 38% from the field. healed outside. 34 seconds left to play here in the second quarter.
Tried to come right back with a three of his own, but it’s no good. Right side Durant. Back to Thompson. Pass to Van Vleet. And some nice passing there by Houston. Shenun with the screen for Thompson. Going inside and it’s Thompson with the jam. Tenacious on the attack. Thompson is fantastic at finding lanes to the basket. Looking to end the run. That shot missing. And so it’s the Houston Rockets sitting on a 21-point lead to end the quarter. The scoring has been tremendous and they are shooting lights out with very high accuracy. And we’ve got more M2K Sports coming your way after this break. [Music] [Music] And with a big gap on the scoreboard, the second half begins with very different goals for these teams. One side trying to mount a comeback, one side trying to protect their lead. What a game we’re seeing from Kevin Durant. No problems fighting his way to the rim in this one. A lot of points in close. Yeah, you know what, guys? They gave him too many free runs to the hoop in the first half. I think they’ve got to be a lot tougher on him. Body him up. Be physical with him. And there wasn’t too much drama in the first half, but maybe things will tighten up here in the second. The post pair form, it’ll be Smith and Shen. Thompson is out there with Fred Van Vleet and it’s KD in at the small forward position. So that’s who’s on the floor for the Rockets. The shot by Curry. No good.
And there have been some terrible shot choices here, Kev. That’s not a good look at all. Now here’s Shangu. He’s guarded closely. Here’s Smith. A terrific shot on the turnaround. Smith’s got 10 points.
And that’s a nice shot from mid-range there. Smith must continue to knock it down at that level. Right here. Right here.
Green the screen. Pajki finds Heel. Bangs home the trifecta. He’s got 12. Lee just sagged off just enough and no hesitation on his part. [Applause] Van Vleet against Curry. Van Vleet passes to Thompson. Shot clock at five. From deep three-point land. Draymond Green pulls it in. Green’s got his six rebound on the night with a short break in the action gives us a chance now to send it over to David Aldridge.
Thanks Kevin. Alparen Shenun is a weapon on the block. Coach Emoka said there are not a ton of true low post threats in the NBA nowadays. Joel Embi Joic I don’t know how many others there are anymore. Alpie’s had success against pretty much everybody that’s guarded him. Kevin, his footwork is indeed high level.
Da totally agree. Great footwork. Moves on moves, I’ve always said.
Now here’s Shangon. No good there off the double clutch. Here’s Curry and he makes good on the layup.
Stronger than he looks. Curry able to take the hit there and finish. Van Vleet passes to Shenu driving to the basket. Good. And Van Vleet gets the assist. Van Vleet’s got five assists in the game. Warriors trail by 18. And we’ve got a timeout called by Steve Kerr. He wants to check in with his team and regroup. [Applause] Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. [Applause] Well, we’re into the third quarter. Just over two and a half minutes played. Pajky with it. It’s up against Thompson. Healed outside. sinks the triple. Heels got a pair of threes now here in the third for the Warriors.
He’s found his rhythm from deep and and you can see the confidence. Yeah, I’d be confident, too. As a matter of fact, I mean, if you’re stacking up threes the way he is, I mean, he’s doing all this work from behind the arc.
The shot by KD. No good. Not quite enough defense that time around. Just lucky he was off. Heel kicks to Curry. Golden State moving it around. Up top. Pompeki. He’s covered by Thompson. Shot clock at three. Shot by PMKI. No good. Rockets leading by 15. Smith. The pass to Thompson. Warriors with the rebound. That is some tough defense there against one of the better finishers in our game. Green with the ball now defended by Shenun. Now PMski pass to healed Green with a screen on KD. There’s the triple. It’s rebounded by Houston. Smith’s got his eighth rebound here tonight. And talking about Buddy Heel, he is someone you can definitely count on. He can score from any place.
Yeah, he’s got great range and his durability is just as impressive as his stroke. You know, most seasons, Buddy Hill plays in 80 or more games. And that is very much a rarity these days. And he’s also a 40% career shooter from three. So, he can space the floor and you know he’s going to be on the floor whenever it’s game time. And guys, what do you think about the offensive approach so far that we’ve seen for the Rockets?
And they’re playing beautiful basketball right now. Racking up the assist by playing so unselfishly, just finding the open man. Yeah, you know, the defense just hasn’t been able to keep up with them in this one. The transition game as a result of good defense has been very strong. [Music] And that’s good as he hits both of his shots. I don’t think you could design a better scorer than Durant. I mean, range from deep, the touch at the rim, excellent handles, 7 feet tall. He does everything you want from your first option. Now, here’s Van Vleet. He’s got eight and Shenun gets it to go on the assist by Thompson. Shenun’s got 12 in the game. Back to Green. Pass to heal. They double him with Shangun. Green with a screen for Curry to the paint and Green slams it in.
And that IQ of Green just sizing up defenses and making the right read in that pick and roll. And
Thompson kicks to Vanley. And here is KD baseline Jay on the way. Good work there as it goes. Durant’s got 28 points for the game.
Unwilling to let up even for a moment. That’s his killer instinct. Just fanning the flames.
Yeah, I love the fact he doesn’t play the score. He just keeps coming attack mode. He doesn’t know how to step off the gas pedal.
Now here’s Curry. He’s got 10. Fouled on the shot and picks up two points. So, one free throw coming up
and Curry’s not the biggest guy, but he can sense the contact coming and makes the adjustment.
The Warriors have shot six or seven at the line.
Yeah, a year ago though, Kevin, 78% conversion rate from the free throw line. So, that’s a nice allaround effort.
Moody’s checked in for Buddy Heel. [Applause] Free throw good. Curry.
And you know, with Curry, what impresses me most is his efficiency. That’s not something we normally see in a high volume jump shoot. Now, here is Smith. He’s got 10. KD. That’s for two. It’s rebounded by Golden State. Green’s got seven rebounds in the game. Inside and it’s PMsky in the corner and the Warriors miss again. And so Van Vleet will bring it up for the Rockets.
Earlier they held a 23-point lead. Shenun good. And Van Vleet gets the assist. 14 points for Shenun.
Shangun a force in the lane. That’s where he does most of his damage.
Green. The pass to Moody. Now Pajimsky. He’s covered by Thompson. They double him with Shangun. Curry can’t get it to go. Pockets leading by 18. Here’s Durant not wasting any time and taking the shot and knocking it down. Durant’s got six here in this quarter. Warriors have gone a solid six of 11 when shooting here in the third quarter. Back to Curry. takes it inside.
And the quickness and change of pace of Curry makes him tough to stop.
And these are his second and third free throws tonight. And and over the course of last year, he was up over 90%. And with a stroke like that, you see why.
You know, he really did excel at the stripe. I mean, they couldn’t have asked for too much more from him when it came to knocking down free throws. And he knocks down the first one. Tory Eens checked in for Fred Van Vleet. And so he makes both from the line. Houston leading by 18. Smith outside and some nice passing there by Houston and Thompson kicks to Smith and the three off target. Golden State’s going a less than productive two of six from three-point land in the second half. Here’s Moody and foul on the shot. He’ll shoot two at the free throw line. He had a defender all over. He got him good there. I mean, that’s why the shot was so far off.
He’s gone two for two at the line so far. Take a break. Take a break. Two shots. He misses the free throw. And the second free throw. Good. Rockets leading by 17. Smith outside. [Applause] Back to Durant. Pass to Shenun. Shot clock at six. Out to Smith from outside the arc and the ball goes out of bounds. Last touch by Shen and stolen by Shangun. Lobbed up there for Thompson. And it’s Thompson with the jam.
Well, you can rely on Durant to do it all. I mean, he’ll produce on his own, but he also works really hard to find his team shots as well.
Here’s Pajki. Pass to Moody. Curry on the wing. They double team Curry. A three ball. Shenun with the rebound. Rockets leading by 19. Smith. The pass to Een. Back to Smith. Outside. Durant. Six on the shot clock. Shoots over Pompeki. The shot that time not on target. Warriors trail by 19 from the arc.
And Jimmy Butler good for three. 20 points for him. Perhaps not the forte of Butler’s game, but he does have the range to hurt you from the perimeter. Shenun with a screen on Kirk. Thompson passes to Shenun. That’s in coming off the assist from Thompson. Thompson’s got his seventh assist in the game.
You know, with that kind of hype mismatch, you’ve got to send help defensively. Pajky with it. Guarded by KD. Green with a screen on KD. Rebound by Smith. Smith’s got nine rebounds in the game. Getting it done. Shoots over Pompeki. Durant. Shot is good. KD’s got 32 points.
Oh, how about the vision from Smith. You have to know not just where, but when to deliver the ball. Here’s PMski. Guarded by KD. Moody’s shot is off. And so it’s Thompson with it. He’ll bring it up for Houston. Earlier they held a 23-point lead. Thompson against Curry. Shoots it up and it’s good off the back of the rim and in. Curry’s got nine points here in the second half. Thompson against Curry. [Music] Durant kicks to Shangon. Smith outside. The three-pointer off the mark. Warriors trail by 18. [Applause] PJMsky with it. Pass to Green. That one no good. Brave defense that time from Shenun. [Applause] Another miss by Houston. The Warriors shooting 47% from the field in the third. And out of bounds as the Rockets gain possession. Houston making some changes. Dorian Finny Smith’s checked in for Smith. Shepard comes in for Kevin Durant. And Aaron Holidayiday subbed in for Amen Thompson. Rockets leading by 18 outside Holiday. Pass to Shenun. A second chance effort and it’s good on the way in. Shenun’s got 10 points in the quarter.
How frustrating for the defense. You get the stop but then fail to block out.
Well, you know that’s the way it’s going to be for them today, fellas. Can’t sustain any momentum.
Now here’s Moody. The rebound by Shepard. And for Houston, they’re shooting at 51%. Really solid. Just two seconds between shot clock and game clock. Here’s Finny Smith. It’s deflected. Here’s Santos. Hasn’t made one yet. Jackson Davis with the bounce pass, puts up a deep three, and the last second attempt does not go in for him. And so it’s Kevin Durant making headlines and highlights for the Houston Rockets. And his big game just keeps getting bigger. That quarter sees him get over 30 points. Right back after this break. And let’s take now this moment to bring up our State Farm assist of the game. Just true artistry right there. I mean, great decision on where to go with the ball. And how about the perfect delivery and they’d love to see every possession end this way. True team basketball. And with the fourth quarter upon us, time is running out for this game to become competitive. Houston leading by 20 on the court for Golden State here in the fourth. We’ve got Stephen Curry. He’s out there with Moody and it’s Jackson Davis in at the power forward position. Now here’s Capella and he gets the whistle. Two free throws coming up. And you know, Capella has a big body, Kevin, and knows how to use it as he draws contact from the defense on his way up. [Applause] No good on that one. And he sinks the second. Warriors trail by 21. [Applause] outside. Curry. Pass to Moody. Back to Curry. Lets it go from deep. Trains it from beyond the ark. Curry’s got 20 points.
And perimeter scoring. I have to imagine it was a topic of discussion at halftime.
Certainly. I mean, they saw a weakness in the perimeter defense and took advantage of it.
Now, here’s Van Vleet. Picked by Finny Smith. shoots the three and falls. Great assist by Van Vleet. Van Vleet’s got his seventh assist of the game with that last one. [Applause] Van Vleet against Curry to the middle. Puts it up from seven and Santos gets it to go
and he can time his passes so perfectly. Wow, what an assist. [Applause] and Thompson kicks to Capella. Here’s Van Bleet. Cans the 12-footer and the Rockets lead by 21.
And unafraid to challenge the heart of this defense. Vanbleleet a strong finisher for his size.
Back to Curry. I got him. Here’s the screen. Puts up a three. Another three for Golden State.
The ball handling of Steph is sometimes undervalued. I mean, he’s much more than a shooter. This guy has mad skills as a handler.
Now, here’s Thompson. Out of hand on it. They recover it. Here’s Santos. And it’s in there. Santos has got four points now in the quarter.
Rockets leading by 16. Van Vleet looking around, shoots it and that one off the back of the rim and in.
And expect smart plays like that from Van Vleet. He he is a clever four general who knows how to create.
And a deep three from Curry. Another three for Golden State.
Pick works well there. Not much resistance from the D.
Yeah, that’s not the defense you need. You got to be tougher defensively. Here’s Thompson shooting foul. As the whistle blows, he’ll shoot two free throws. Two shots. Andy can’t get the first one. And the Warriors making a change here. Hojimki’s checked in. Good on the second free throw. Fourth quarter keeps moving right along. Three minutes gone so far. [Applause] It’s deflected. Van Vleet against Curry. [Music] And here is Van Vleet. shoots over Curry. Van Vleet can’t get it to go. Warriors trail by 16. Pass to Curry. There’s a good screen. Fred Van Vleet grabs the miss. And that was a little bit of a range check for him.
You know, guys, I think he’s got confidence to shoot it from anywhere, but he could have gotten a better one than that.
Now, here’s Van Vleet. Now here’s Capella. Finny Smith passes to East. Five on the clock. Here’s Van Vleet. Poinski grabs the board. Pajki’s got six rebounds in the game. Pass to Curry. Jacks up a three. Knocks down the three ball. Curry’s got 29. Well, and this has been their strategy throughout the fourth period. We’ll see how it pans out.
You know what? Teams can get a little three happy down the stretch sometimes. Letting it fly. Vinnie Smith with it. Jackson Davis defending the shot by Thompson. No good. Now here’s Moody. He’s covered by Een. They set the pick. Pass to Pajki. Jackson Davis with it. Finny Smith defending. Jackson Davis with it. Working on Finny Smith. And so it looks like the Warriors will retain possession here. So for the Rockets, Shenun’s checked in for Capella. Jabari Smith comes in for Dorian Finny Smith. And it’s Kevin Durant in for Thompson. Pass to Jackson Davis. Curry outside. Rebound by Smith. Smith’s got rebound number 10 tonight with that last one. Here is Durant. Jackson Davis defending. Smith left side. He gets that one. And 12 points so far for Jabari Smith. Good stuff that time from Smith stepping in for his jumper. Pajky with it. Durant there to the inside and they call the foul. So a chance at the line for one more coming up
on the offensive end. Curry both prolific and efficient.
And the Rockets making a change here. Holidays checked in. Green, he’s checked in for Golden State. Jimmy Butler comes in for Moody. One shot. [Applause] That’s good from Stephen Curry. Rockets leading by 12. Shangun drives in. Warriors with the rebound. Green’s got rebound number 10 tonight with that last one. Fires the three and Curry the bucket on the assist by Green. Curry’s got 35 in the game.
And the shooting mechanics of Curry, they are as pure as anybody who’s ever played. He’s such a dangerous shooter and scorer. Now here is Smith and Holiday has it in the corner and he can’t answer back. The three-pointer offline and here’s Curry who brings it up for the Warriors. Nine-point game. Curry gets it to go inside.
Great work inside by Curry there. So clever and composed in the paint. Pass to Een [Applause] Smith with it. [Applause] Now Een, the three from KD. So smooth on the three from Durant.
Well, that’s virtually impossible to defend. I mean, with Durant’s length, those long arms, and the high arcing shot that he shoots, the best you can do as a defender is challenge him and hope he misses. It’ll go. The Rocket lead is back down to a seven-point margin getting the points there from Jimmy Butler.
And an eye for an eye. Both teams working to stretch the floor.
Nothing like answering back. One team gets three, you fire three of your own. Boom.
And we’ve got a timeout called from Eay Udoko. And clearly an important juncture. He’s going to have some choice words with his team. [Applause] I can’t wait. [Applause] Amen. Thompson, he’s checked in for Houston. Red Van Glee comes in for Aaron Holiday. Buddy Heel, he’s checked in for the Warriors. And let’s head over to the sideline and catch up with David Aldridge.
Hey guys, during that last break, I heard Emodoka as he talked with the team. Now, he heaped praise on the defense. He said, “The pressure is great. I love it. Keep making them make mistakes, guys. It’s working. He thinks they’re on the right track here, guys. Back to you.
Thanks, David. Now, here’s Van Vleet. Pass to Shenun. It’s tipped. Curry against Van Vleet. Back to Shenun. And the ball goes out of bounds. Last touch by Shenun. [Applause] Warriors trail by seven. [Applause] Now here’s Curry. Healed outside and it’s sent back by KD. For all the scoring, KD’s 7 and 1/2t reach can sometimes get overlooked. He said, “Let me remind you with that rejection.” And this is why coaches talk about playing with pace. The scoreboard tells it all. That really has been the difference. I mean, they’ve been the better team in transition.
Majky with it. He’s covered by Thompson. Pass to Curry. Fires from deep. It’s rebounded by Houston. Smith’s got 11 rebounds in the game. Outside Durant on the wing. Thompson. Back to Durant. [Applause] Durant uses his size and close. Tell you what, that defense was physical and yet Durant with great balance and composure just stayed with it. [Applause] Pass to He lets the three fly. Got it. Number seven on the night. Seven for 11 from the floor.
Defensively there was a lack of aggressiveness and it really made it easy for him to knock that shot down. Smith outside inside. It’s stolen by Green. Here’s Curry. The Rockets pull it in. Earlier they held a 23-point lead. Thompson outside. Houston moving the ball around. Pass to Durant. Just five to shoot. In the corner, it’s Van Vleet and a miss there on the triple. Warriors trail by eight. Aggressive play by Butler against the defense.
An aggressive mentality always part of Jimmy Butler’s game. Taking it right at the defense. [Applause] Shenun against Green. Shangun kicks to Van Vleet. Shenun with the screen for Van Vleet. At the Shangon contact on the shot and now a three-point play chance as he’ll head to the line.
Mustling through contact. This is where Shangun’s at his best. You got it now. You got it. And here’s Curry who brings it up for the Warriors. They trail by nine points. Curry crashes inside. Well, that that’s one way he can finish, but far from the only way he gets it done. He’s got all kinds of tricks up his sleeve.
Down low. Here’s Shangon. And the shot no good. A bit short. Warriors trail by seven. Here’s Hee. Some solid defense there from KD. 149 left here in the fourth quarter. At the elbow, Smith pass to Shenun. Here’s Thompson. Now, here’s Van Glee. Guarded by Kirk. Six to shoot and the call on the shot. It sends in to the line
and it goes on Draymond Green and a shoot first point guard man. Bleet understands how to get defenders to foul him when taking shots. Good on the first and that stretches their lead to eight. [Applause] And so he drops them both. It’s a nine-point ball game here. The Warriors shooting at 44%. Pretty reasonable. Curry looking it over the offbalance finish. Curry,
you can’t say enough about his individual performance. I don’t think you can overstate it. I mean, even if the all-around team efforts been lacking, this guy’s been on top of things. Smith on the wing. Active Vleet. Pass to Thompson. And here is Durant. covered by Heel. Physical physical defense and KD does not flinch.
Not surprised at all. He’s shooting it well and scoring points in budgies.
And we’ve got a timeout called by Steve Kerr and he wants to see some changes out there right away and right now. Heat. [Applause] Heat. [Applause] Heat. Heat. [Applause] Heat. Heat. [Applause] [Applause] There’s 53 seconds left in the fourth quarter of this one. Over in the corner, Green. Curry with it. Now defended by Shenun. Shock up two there. Curry’s got 43 points. Thompson with it. They’re this close to putting it away.
Yeah, they don’t need to do anything special. Just take time off the clock. Van Vleet on the wing guarded by Curry. Block at six. Curry against Van Vleet. Jimmy Butler with the rebound. I I think it’s safe to call this one a wrap.
Yep, I agree with you. Chalk it up. W in the bag. So, we see the Rockets get the win here. It was a fantastic ball game and they did a great job making sure it didn’t get away from them late. Yeah, I mean they faced some challenges but really held firm when they needed to on both ends. Just effective in terms of coming away with this win.
Well folks, that’s going to do it for now for Greg Anthony, Clark Kellogg, and David Aldridge. This is Kevin Harland. Thanks for watching the NBA on 2K Sports. And now our player of the game, Kevin Durant.
NBA LIVE! Houston Rockets vs Golden State Warriors | July 5, 2025 Warriors vs Rockets 2K Preseason
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