Introduction to Golden State Warriors vs Houston Rockets Match Player Stats
The highly anticipated matchup between the Golden State Warriors and the Houston Rockets took place on December 11, 2024, at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas. As both teams aimed to solidify their positions in the NBA Cup quarterfinals, the game turned into an intense battle marked by strategic plays, remarkable performances, and last-minute drama. The Houston Rockets secured a stunning 91-90 victory, breaking their 15-game losing streak against the Warriors and making a strong statement with their resilience and determination. This win propelled them to the NBA Cup semifinals, making it one of their most memorable games of the season.
The game was defined by high-level defense, clutch performances, and a nail-biting finish that left fans at the edge of their seats. Both teams had moments of dominance, but it was Houston’s ability to capitalize on their opportunities and limit mistakes in the final moments that led to their success. The Golden State Warriors, led by the legendary Stephen Curry, put up a great fight, but their inability to control turnovers and capitalize on free throws cost them the game. On the other hand, Alperen Şengün and Jabari Smith Jr. played critical roles in securing the victory for Houston, demonstrating their growing potential as franchise cornerstones.
In this detailed breakdown, we will analyze team performances, individual player stats, key game moments, and post-match insights to understand how the Rockets emerged victorious against the Warriors.
Table of Contents
Game Overview: Score, Shooting Percentages & Key Statistics
The final score of the game was 91-90 in favor of the Houston Rockets, with both teams displaying incredible defensive discipline. The match had multiple lead changes and momentum swings, proving to be a contest of endurance and tactical execution.
Houston Rockets – Team Performance
- Field Goals (FG): 35/84 (41.7%)
- Three-Point Shooting (3P): 6/27 (22.2%)
- Free Throws (FT): 15/17 (88.2%)
- Rebounds (REB): 43 (10 offensive, 33 defensive)
- Assists (AST): 20
- Turnovers (TO): 17
- Steals (STL): 8
- Blocks (BLK): 4
Golden State Warriors – Team Performance
- Field Goals (FG): 37/84 (44%)
- Three-Point Shooting (3P): 12/38 (31.6%)
- Free Throws (FT): 4/9 (44.4%)
- Rebounds (REB): 39 (11 offensive, 28 defensive)
- Assists (AST): 22
- Turnovers (TO): 22
- Steals (STL): 9
- Blocks (BLK): 6
While the Warriors outshot the Rockets in field goal percentage (44% vs. 41.7%) and three-point percentage (31.6% vs. 22.2%), they struggled from the free-throw line, converting only 4 out of 9 attempts (44.4%), which proved costly. The Rockets capitalized on their free throws, making 15 out of 17 (88.2%), a significant factor in their narrow victory. Turnovers were also a major issue for Golden State, as their 22 turnovers led to 30 points for Houston, whereas the Rockets managed to keep theirs to 17.
Key Player Performances and Stats
Houston Rockets – Top Performers
- Alperen Şengün (Center): 26 points, 11 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals (10/18 FG)
- Jabari Smith Jr. (Forward): 15 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 block (6/11 FG, 3/8 3P)
- Jalen Green (Guard): 12 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals (5/15 FG)
- Dillon Brooks (Forward): 9 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals (4/8 FG)
- Fred VanVleet (Guard): 8 points, 7 assists, 2 rebounds (3/13 FG)
Golden State Warriors – Top Performers
- Jonathan Kuminga (Forward): 20 points, 7 rebounds, 1 assist (8/20 FG, 2/6 3P)
- Stephen Curry (Guard): 19 points, 5 assists, 3 rebounds, 2 steals (8/17 FG, 3/9 3P)
- Buddy Hield (Guard): 15 points, 4 rebounds, 2 steals, 3 blocks (6/12 FG, 3/9 3P)
- Draymond Green (Forward): 8 points, 3 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 block (4/9 FG)
- Gary Payton II (Guard): 4 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals (18 minutes)
Alperen Şengün was the standout player of the night, delivering a double-double with 26 points and 11 rebounds, along with 5 assists. His ability to dominate in the paint and make clutch plays proved crucial for the Rockets’ success. Jabari Smith Jr. also played a significant role, particularly in the second half, where his three-pointers and defensive stops kept the Rockets in the game.
On the Warriors’ side, Jonathan Kuminga and Stephen Curry were the top scorers, but Curry struggled with consistency, shooting only 3-of-9 from three-point range. Buddy Hield had an impressive all-around performance, contributing 3 blocks, 2 steals, and 15 points, but his efforts weren’t enough to overcome Houston’s defensive pressure.
Game Flow and Pivotal Moments
First Half: Rockets Control Early Momentum
The game started with both teams playing aggressive defense. The Rockets outscored the Warriors 20-18 in the first quarter, thanks to Şengün’s early dominance in the paint. In the second quarter, Houston extended their lead, going into halftime with a 44-37 advantage.
Third Quarter: Warriors Mount a Comeback
After the break, Golden State came out firing, with Curry and Kuminga leading the charge. The Warriors outscored Houston 30-22 in the third quarter, taking a 67-66 lead heading into the final period.
Fourth Quarter: Rockets Secure a Dramatic Win
The final quarter saw multiple lead changes, with both teams trading baskets. With 1:30 left on the clock, Houston led 89-88. A huge defensive play by Dillon Brooks, followed by a clutch jumper from Jabari Smith Jr., gave the Rockets a 91-88 lead. Curry had a chance to tie the game but missed a contested three-pointer in the final seconds, sealing the 91-90 win for Houston.
Post-Game Analysis & Takeaways
Houston Rockets’ Strengths
- Excellent free-throw shooting (88.2%)
- Strong interior presence led by Alperen Şengün
- Defensive execution in the final moments
- Limited turnovers compared to Warriors
Golden State Warriors’ Weaknesses
- Poor free-throw shooting (44.4%)
- Too many turnovers (22)
- Lack of scoring efficiency in crucial moments
This game showcased Houston’s growth as a team and proved that they can compete with elite teams like the Warriors. With this win, the Rockets advance to the NBA Cup semifinals, while the Warriors will have to regroup and address their inconsistencies. The stage is set for an exciting playoff push as both teams look ahead to future battles.
Also read – Golden State Warriors vs Dallas Mavericks Match Player Stats – A Complete Analysis
