Buddy Hield emerged as the standout hero in Game 7 of the Golden State Warriors’ first-round NBA Playoff series, powering his team to a dominant 103–89 win over the Houston Rockets. With this decisive victory at the Toyota Center in Houston, the Warriors secured their place in the 2025 Western Conference Semifinals.
On a night where everything seemed to click, it was Hield’s shooting that truly stole the spotlight. The 32-year-old sharpshooter delivered one of the most memorable playoff performances in recent memory, burying 9 out of 11 three-point attempts—an astounding 81% conversion rate. His precision from beyond the arc accounted for half of the Warriors’ 18 total made three-pointers, the highest mark the team has hit throughout their grueling seven-game series against Houston.
Buddy Hield Bouncing Back After Struggles
Hield’s Game 7 explosion came at just the right time. He had been largely ineffective in Games 5 and 6, where he failed to score a single point in Game 5 and went 0-for-6 from downtown across both matchups. The Warriors had originally jumped to a commanding 3-1 lead in the series, only to be forced into a Game 7 after back-to-back losses. But in the winner-takes-all finale, Hield stepped up in spectacular fashion.
From the opening tip, it was clear Hield was locked in. He poured in 22 points in the first half alone, making 6 of 7 three-point attempts. That first-half total set a new franchise record for most points in a Game 7 opening half. He would go on to finish the game with 33 points on 12-of-15 shooting, including the record-setting 9 triples—tying the all-time Game 7 playoff record previously set by Donte DiVincenzo.
A Two-Way Effort Praised by Coach Kerr
Golden State head coach Steve Kerr didn’t hold back in praising Hield’s performance. Not only for his offensive brilliance but also for his defensive contribution. Hield was tasked with limiting Fred VanVleet, Houston’s top playmaker who had wreaked havoc in earlier games.
“I thought Buddy was phenomenal tonight—not just with his shot-making, but with his defense,” Kerr said postgame. “VanVleet had been torching us for most of the series. Tonight, we kept him in check. That’s all thanks to Buddy’s intensity and discipline on that end. He gave us a complete two-way performance.”
Indeed, VanVleet was held to just 17 points and earned only two free-throw attempts. Far below his usual output in the series.
Curry, Butler, and Green Provide the Support for Buddy Hield
Although Hield was the star of the night, he wasn’t alone. Stephen Curry, who had been quiet in the first half with just three points, came alive in the final two quarters. He delivered a double-double with 22 points, 10 rebounds, 7 assists, 2 steals, and 2 blocks. Showcasing his veteran leadership when it mattered most.
Jimmy Butler III also had an excellent all-around game, contributing 20 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists while shooting an efficient 7-of-13 from the field. Draymond Green chipped in with 16 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists. Offering his signature energy and playmaking, while Brandin Podziemski added 9 valuable points off the bench.
The Warriors shot 47.6% from the field (39-of-82) and were never truly threatened after taking control late in the first quarter. Their well-balanced attack and rejuvenated defense left the Rockets searching for answers in front of their home crowd.
What’s Next: Showdown with Timberwolves
With their series win sealed, the Warriors now shift their focus to the next challenge. The Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference Semifinals. Game 1 is scheduled to take place in two days at the Target Center in Minneapolis. The Timberwolves enter the semifinals well-rested after dispatching the Los Angeles Lakers in just five games (4–1).
The stage is now set for what promises to be a thrilling clash between two of the league’s most dynamic squads. With Buddy Hield firing on all cylinders and Curry finding his late-game rhythm. Golden State will head into the next round brimming with confidence.
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