Steph Curry Leads Warriors to Game 3 Victory Over Rockets

Steph Curry Shines in Game 3 Victory Over Rockets

The Golden State Warriors secured a crucial 104-93 victory over the Houston Rockets in Game 3 of their Western Conference playoff series, thanks to a stellar performance from Steph Curry. The win at Chase Center gives the Warriors a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven series.

Steph Curry’s Dominant Performance

Facing one of the league’s most physical defenses and playing without co-star Jimmy Butler, Curry delivered an outstanding performance. The 37-year-old guard scored 36 points on 12-of-23 shooting, including several difficult layups and trademark three-pointers. Despite relentless defensive pressure, Curry’s offensive brilliance proved too much for Houston to handle.

Key Contributions from Role Players

While Curry led the charge, the Warriors received significant contributions from other players. Buddy Hield came off the bench to score 17 points, providing a much-needed scoring boost. Gary Payton added 16 points, nine of which came in a crucial two-minute stretch during the fourth quarter. Draymond Green was a defensive standout, contributing seven points, eight rebounds, three blocks, and two steals.

Jimmy Butler’s Absence

The Warriors were without Jimmy Butler, who was sidelined due to a bruised pelvis sustained in Game 2. Despite initial optimism from head coach Steve Kerr about Butler’s availability, the star wing was ruled out after pregame exercises. Jonathan Kuminga started in Butler’s place and contributed with physical drives to the basket.

Warriors Overcome Early Deficit

Golden State faced challenges early in the game, trailing 49-46 at halftime and by as much as 34-22 in the second quarter. The team endured a dry spell, scoring just four points over an eight-minute stretch. However, Curry ended the drought with a series of layups and three-pointers, while Hield added nine points in a late second-quarter surge. The Warriors scored 24 points in the final six minutes of the half to close the gap.

Fourth Quarter Heroics

The game remained tight in the fourth quarter, with neither team able to pull away initially. Curry briefly rested with eight minutes remaining, but Gary Payton provided a spark with back-to-back layups and a three-pointer. This sequence gave the Warriors the lead for good, as they outscored the Rockets down the stretch.

Improved Rebounding and Free Throw Shooting

After being heavily out-rebounded in Game 1, the Warriors showed improvement on the boards, being out-rebounded by just six in Game 3. They also capitalized on free throw opportunities, shooting 12-of-15 from the line compared to Houston’s 14-of-24.

With a 2-1 series lead, the Warriors will aim to build on their momentum in Game 4. The status of Jimmy Butler remains uncertain, but Golden State has shown resilience and depth in his absence. Meanwhile, the Rockets will look to regroup and find answers for Curry’s offensive dominance. Game 4 is scheduled to take place at Chase Center, where the Warriors will have the opportunity to extend their series lead.