The 2025 NBA Playoffs began with an electrifying matchup between the Golden State Warriors and the Houston Rockets on April 20, 2025. Held at the Toyota Center in Houston, this Game 1 clash marked the start of their best-of-seven Western Conference first-round series. Fans witnessed a compelling contest between a veteran-led Warriors squad and a youthful, energetic Rockets team eager to prove themselves on the postseason stage. The game was highly anticipated due to recent trades, team dynamics, and the playoff debut of several key players. Ultimately, the Warriors relied on experience and composure to secure a 95–85 victory, setting the tone for what promises to be a fiercely competitive series.
Game Overview: Golden State Warriors vs Houston Rockets Match Player Stats
The Golden State Warriors opened their 2025 playoff campaign with a commanding performance, defeating the Houston Rockets 95–85 in Game 1. Despite trailing after the first quarter, the Warriors quickly took control in the second period, outscoring Houston 29–13 to go into halftime with a 13-point lead. Golden State’s balanced offense and disciplined defense created problems for the Rockets, who struggled with poor shooting and turnovers throughout the game.
Stephen Curry led all scorers with 31 points, showing off his usual precision from beyond the arc and his ability to create space. Newcomer Jimmy Butler, in his playoff debut for Golden State, delivered a dynamic all-around performance, contributing 25 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists, and 5 steals. The Warriors’ strong second quarter proved decisive, as Houston never fully recovered despite brief rallies in the third and fourth quarters.
The Rockets, led by Alperen Şengün with 26 points and 9 rebounds, had difficulty generating consistent offense. Their backcourt duo of Fred VanVleet and Jalen Green combined for just 17 points on 7-of-34 shooting, a major factor in Houston’s scoring inefficiency. Although the Rockets outrebounded Golden State 52–36 and recorded 22 offensive rebounds, their 16 turnovers and inability to capitalize on second-chance opportunities ultimately cost them the game
Team Box Scores: Golden State Warriors vs Houston Rockets Match Player Stats
| Team | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 | Final |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Golden State (GSW) | 18 | 29 | 22 | 26 | 95 |
| Houston (HOU) | 21 | 13 | 26 | 25 | 85 |
Golden State shot 47.4% from the field and 37.5% from three-point range, while Houston managed 39.1% overall and 20.7% from beyond the arc.
Top Individual Performers: Golden State Warriors vs Houston Rockets Match Player Stats
>Golden State Warriors
- Stephen Curry: 31 points (12-19 FG, 5-9 3PT), 6 rebounds, 3 assists.
- Jimmy Butler: 25 points (10-19 FG), 7 rebounds, 6 assists, 5 steals.
- Brandin Podziemski: 14 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists.
>Houston Rockets
- Alperen Şengün: 26 points (11-18 FG), 9 rebounds.
- Dillon Brooks: 11 points, 3 rebounds.
- Amen Thompson: 8 points, 9 rebounds, 6 assists.
Notably, Jalen Green and Fred VanVleet combined for just 17 points on 7-of-34 shooting.
Quarter-by-Quarter Breakdown
- 1st Quarter: Houston led 21–18, capitalizing on early momentum.
- 2nd Quarter: Golden State surged ahead with a 29–13 run, leading 47–34 at halftime.
- 3rd Quarter: Houston narrowed the gap, outscoring Golden State 26–22.
- 4th Quarter: Despite Houston’s efforts, Golden State maintained control, sealing the game with a 26–25 quarter.
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Game Analysis: Golden State Warriors vs Houston Rockets Match Player Stats
Golden State’s victory was a testament to their playoff poise and defensive structure. While the Warriors did not dominate in every statistical category, their execution in key moments and their ability to capitalize on Houston’s mistakes were central to their success. The defensive presence of Draymond Green, who recorded 3 steals and disrupted numerous plays, set the tone early and helped contain Houston’s pick-and-roll offense.
Jimmy Butler’s impact cannot be overstated. In addition to his offensive production, he acted as a defensive anchor on the perimeter, limiting penetration and forcing difficult shots. His synergy with Curry was evident as they combined for 56 of the team’s 95 points. Brandin Podziemski also made valuable contributions off the bench, adding 14 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists, further highlighting Golden State’s depth.
Houston’s game plan appeared to focus on aggressive rebounding and interior scoring, but their poor shot selection and lack of backcourt production hampered their effectiveness. Despite creating more opportunities through offensive boards, they failed to convert those chances, largely due to Golden State’s tight half-court defense and transition discipline. The Rockets will need to rethink their shot distribution and perimeter defense in Game 2 if they hope to even the series.
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Conclusion
The Golden State Warriors’ Game 1 win over the Houston Rockets underscores the importance of experience and execution in the playoffs. Their ability to adjust after a slow start and dominate the second quarter changed the trajectory of the game. Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler delivered elite performances, demonstrating why they remain among the NBA’s most reliable playoff contributors.
For the Houston Rockets, this game served as a reality check. While their youth and energy are strengths, playoff basketball demands precision, composure, and efficient execution—qualities they lacked in this opener. The Rockets must make critical adjustments in their offensive sets and defensive rotations ahead of Game 2.
As the series progresses, all eyes will be on how Houston responds to this early setback and whether Golden State can maintain its momentum. If Game 1 is any indication, the Warriors have no intention of relinquishing control easily, while the Rockets face a steep learning curve to stay competitive in this high-stakes matchup.
FAQs
Q: When is Game 2 scheduled?
A: Game 2 is set for Wednesday night in Houston.
Q: How did Jimmy Butler perform in his playoff debut for the Warriors?
A: Butler scored 25 points, grabbed 7 rebounds, dished out 6 assists, and recorded 5 steals, making a significant impact.
Q: What were the key factors in Golden State’s win?
A: Efficient shooting from Curry and Butler, strong defense leading to turnovers, and maintaining composure during Houston’s comeback attempts.
