What a turnaround. What a statement. After being counted out by many, the Houston Rockets have roared back into the playoff picture — and now, we officially have a series on our hands. With their backs against the wall, the Rockets have shown resilience, grit, and most importantly, belief. This young, fearless squad has refused to fold, and after a massive Game 5 performance, it’s clear: Houston is here to fight.
The Rockets came into the playoffs as underdogs, with a roster full of rising stars, unproven postseason experience, and plenty of questions. But rather than letting the moment overwhelm them, they’ve responded with energy, hustle, and a chip on their shoulders. Game by game, they’ve grown. Now, after a dominating Game 5 win on their home floor, momentum has swung their way — and they’ve forced a Game 6.
Leading the charge is none other than Amen Thompson, whose two-way brilliance has turned heads all series long. In Game 5, he was everywhere — slashing to the basket, creating for others, locking up the perimeter, and making highlight plays that reminded everyone why Houston drafted him so high. His confidence is growing, and with each possession, he looks more and more like the future face of this franchise.
Alongside him, Jalen Green has found his rhythm at the perfect time. After a quiet start to the series, Green exploded offensively, attacking mismatches, hitting from deep, and feeding off the home crowd’s energy. His swagger is contagious, and when he gets hot, this Rockets offense becomes nearly impossible to contain.
But this resurgence isn’t just about the stars. The entire squad has stepped up. Alperen Şengün continues to anchor the middle with his unique blend of footwork, vision, and toughness. Jabari Smith Jr. is stretching the floor and playing with confidence. The bench unit, led by savvy veteran presence and gritty defenders, has brought intensity and stability when it matters most. Head coach Ime Udoka deserves huge credit for adjusting on the fly, tightening up the rotations, and instilling a no-quit mentality in this group.
Defensively, Houston has turned up the pressure. They’re contesting every shot, crashing the glass, and making life miserable for their opponents. It’s a complete team effort — exactly what playoff basketball demands.
This series, once leaning heavily in favor of their opponent, is now a dogfight. The Rockets have not only kept themselves alive — they’ve re-written the storyline. And now, with Game 6 looming, the pressure has flipped. Houston is confident. Houston is dangerous. And Houston smells blood.
The fans are rocking, the city is buzzing, and this team is believing. HOUSTON, WE HAVE A SERIES — and if you weren’t paying attention before, now’s the time.
Game 6 is coming. The Rockets are coming. And the series? It’s very much alive. 🚀
