Houston Rockets Stun Golden State Warriors in Thrilling Game 6 Victory to Keep Playoff Hopes Alive

SAN FRANCISCO – The Houston Rockets defied elimination Friday night, overcoming a late deficit to stun the Golden State Warriors 115-107 in Game 6 of their first-round playoff series. Veteran guard Fred VanVleet delivered a legendary performance, propelling the Rockets to a decisive Game 7 and keeping their championship hopes alive.

VanVleet’s Fourth-Quarter Flurry Seals Warriors’ Fate
With the Rockets trailing 86-84 entering the final quarter, VanVleet wasted no time shifting momentum. Just six seconds into the fourth, he drilled a contested 25-foot three-pointer while drawing a foul on Gary Payton II, completing a four-point play that ignited Houston’s 6-0 run. The sequence left the Warriors reeling, as Jalen Green followed with a tip-in layup to extend the lead.

“You lose the life, you know?” Warriors forward Draymond Green admitted postgame. “We started the quarter with a two-point game and gave up a four-point play. Fred took over.”

VanVleet finished with a game-high 29 points, eight assists, and a staggering 18 three-pointers over the last three games – a Rockets postseason record. His 19-point second-half explosion marked his third straight playoff game with 25+ points, a career first.

Warriors’ Defensive Gamble Backfires
Golden State’s strategy to neutralize Jalen Green by trapping and blitzing him created opportunities for VanVleet to thrive. While Green has been held to single-digit scoring in three losses this series, VanVleet capitalized on the Warriors’ defensive focus, shooting 66.7% from deep in the past three games.

“A calm, steady mind is the best path forward,” said VanVleet, who credited his veteran poise. “I’ve trained all summer for these moments. When they come, I’m ready.”

Teammates praised the 30-year-old’s leadership. “He’s amazing,” center Alperen Sengun said. “He leads us on and off the court.”

Historic Comeback in Sight
Houston now aims to become the third team in franchise history to overcome a 3-1 series deficit. The Warriors, meanwhile, face mounting pressure after shooting 1-of-15 to start the fourth quarter and failing to contain VanVleet’s rhythm.

“He’s too comfortable,” Draymond Green warned. “We have to break that up.”

Rockets coach Ime Udoka hinted at adjustments for Game 7: “If [the Warriors] focus on Fred, Jalen will have freedom. We’ve got options.”

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