Close Contest: Warriors Win, Now Up 3-1 On Rockets

Viktoria Ivanova

5 min read

Post on May 07, 2025

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A Thrilling Fourth Quarter Showdown

The final quarter of Game 4 was a true testament to playoff basketball. This "close contest" went down to the wire, with the lead changing hands multiple times. The keyword here is "clutch performance," as both teams displayed incredible resilience and determination.

• Score Fluctuations: The score seesawed throughout the fourth, with neither team able to establish a comfortable lead. At one point, the Rockets were down by 7, only to claw their way back to within 2 points with under a minute remaining. This back-and-forth action kept fans on the edge of their seats.
• Key Player Performances: While Steph Curry's performance was undoubtedly stellar (more on that below), James Harden for the Rockets also displayed exceptional scoring abilities, keeping his team in the game despite facing strong defensive pressure from the Warriors.
• Strategic Decisions: Both coaches employed different strategies during the final minutes. The Warriors opted for a more defensive approach, trying to limit Harden's scoring opportunities. The Rockets, in contrast, pushed for quick scores, sometimes sacrificing defensive stability in their attempt to regain the lead.
• Overtime?: Thankfully, the game ended before needing an overtime period, with the Warriors managing to secure the win in regulation. The tension was palpable, with the possibility of overtime adding an even more intense layer to this already captivating "close contest".

Steph Curry's Stellar Performance

Steph Curry was undoubtedly the standout performer in this "close contest," delivering an MVP-caliber performance that solidified the Warriors' victory. His contribution went far beyond simple scoring; it was about leadership and game-changing plays at critical moments.

• Statistics: Curry finished the game with 35 points, 7 assists, and 5 rebounds. His scoring prowess was essential, but his assists and rebounding contributed significantly to the team's overall flow.
• Three-Pointers: Curry's three-point shooting was lethal, hitting several crucial shots to keep the Warriors ahead during pivotal moments of the game.
• Impressive Plays: He showcased several incredible plays, including a step-back three-pointer with 30 seconds remaining, effectively sealing the game for Golden State. This exemplifies his "clutch performance" in the fourth quarter.
• Impact: Beyond his statistical contributions, Curry's presence on the court inspired his teammates, providing a steady hand and guiding force amidst the intense pressure of a "close contest" playoff game.

Rockets' Struggles and Areas for Improvement

Despite their valiant effort, the Houston Rockets faced several challenges in Game 4 that hindered their ability to secure a victory. Analyzing their performance reveals key areas for improvement as they face a 3-1 deficit in the series.

• Offensive Inefficiency: The Rockets struggled with their shooting percentage, particularly from beyond the three-point arc. Too many turnovers also disrupted their offensive rhythm and provided easy scoring opportunities for the Warriors.
• Defensive Weaknesses: The Rockets' defensive strategy appeared to struggle to contain Curry effectively, particularly in the fourth quarter. This allowed the Warriors to maintain offensive momentum and secure the win.
• Player Underperformance: While Harden played admirably, other key players on the Rockets squad did not consistently perform at their peak abilities. This lack of consistent contribution across the board weakened their overall performance.
• Comeback Chances: While a comeback is still mathematically possible, the 3-1 deficit presents a significant uphill battle for the Rockets. They need a significant improvement in their overall game to even their odds.

Looking Ahead: Warriors' Path to the Next Round

The Warriors' 3-1 series lead puts them in a commanding position heading into Game 5. This "close contest" victory significantly boosts their chances of advancing to the next round of the NBA Playoffs.

• Team Morale: The win will undoubtedly boost the Warriors' morale and confidence heading into the next game. This momentum can be a significant advantage.
• Rockets' Comeback: For the Rockets, the challenge is monumental. They need to win three consecutive games against a strong Warriors team to avoid elimination.
• Series Prediction: Barring an unexpected collapse from the Warriors, it's highly likely they will advance to the next round, given their current 3-1 lead. The series' trajectory suggests a Warriors victory.
• Warriors' Championship Chances: This series win further solidifies the Warriors’ position as strong contenders for the championship. Their consistent performance throughout the playoffs is a testament to their team strength and individual skill.

Conclusion

Game 4 between the Warriors and Rockets proved to be a thrilling "close contest," ultimately decided by the Warriors' clutch plays and Steph Curry's exceptional performance. The Warriors' 3-1 lead signifies their current dominance, while the Rockets face a challenging path to recovery. The key takeaways are Curry's MVP-level performance, the Rockets' need for offensive and defensive improvements, and the Warriors' strong position to advance. Stay tuned for further updates on this exciting playoff series. Don't miss the next "close contest" between the Warriors and Rockets as they battle for a spot in the next round! Keep reading for more in-depth analysis and commentary on this thrilling NBA playoff matchup.