In a thrilling NBA matchup on April 5, 2026, the Houston Rockets defeated the Golden State Warriors 117-116 at the Chase Center in San Francisco. This closely contested game saw the Rockets extend their winning streak to six games, while the Warriors faced challenges as they secured their position in the Western Conference play-in tournament.
Stephen Curry made a notable return from injury, scoring 29 points for the Warriors. His performance was crucial, especially in the final minutes of the game, as he attempted to rally his team back from a deficit. Despite his efforts, the Rockets managed to hold on to their slim lead, thanks in part to the stellar play of Kevin Durant, who scored a game-high 31 points.
Alperen Sengun emerged as a key player for the Rockets, contributing 24 points and making the decisive go-ahead basket with just 11.1 seconds remaining in the game. This victory solidified the Rockets’ position as one of the top teams in the Western Conference, currently sitting at third place with a record of 48-29.
Key moments
The game was marked by intense back-and-forth action, with both teams exchanging leads throughout the night. The projected total for the game was around 226.5 points, and the matchup lived up to expectations with a final score that reflected the competitive nature of both teams. Houston entered the game as 3.5-point favorites, a testament to their recent form and consistency.
For the Warriors, this loss was significant as they have now virtually assured themselves of the 10th seed in the Western play-in tournament, with a current record of 36-41. Coach Steve Kerr commented on Curry’s return, stating, “He’s one of the most beloved players in league history, Bay Area history in any sport, and I think a long absence like this reminds everybody how lucky we are to see him, to watch him, to coach him, to play with him.” Kerr also mentioned that the plan for Curry’s minutes was to have shorter bursts, indicating a cautious approach to his recovery.
The Rockets’ victory not only highlights their strong performance this season but also raises questions about the Warriors’ ability to compete in the upcoming playoffs. As the regular season draws to a close, both teams will be looking to solidify their strategies and rosters for the postseason.
As fans reflect on this exciting game, they are left to ponder the implications for both teams moving forward. The Rockets continue to build momentum, while the Warriors must regroup and focus on their upcoming challenges in the play-in tournament. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any potential changes in team lineups or strategies as the playoffs approach.