The Houston Rockets may be out of the playoffs, but they didn’t go quietly. In a thrilling, hard-fought first-round series, the young Rockets pushed the seasoned Golden State Warriors to the brink, forcing a dramatic Game 7 and earning respect from fans and critics alike. At the heart of Houston’s incredible playoff push were rising stars Amen Thompson and Jalen Green, who showcased talent, toughness, and fearlessness on the biggest stage of their young careers.
For a team many didn’t expect to make it out of the Play-In Tournament, the Rockets exceeded expectations and proved they belonged in the postseason. Their series against the Warriors was billed as a battle between experience and youth, and while Golden State ultimately advanced, Houston delivered a message loud and clear: the future is bright in H-Town.
Jalen Green, in particular, stepped into the spotlight with authority. The third-year guard put together a breakout series, averaging over 26 points per game while embracing the role of Houston’s go-to scorer. His athleticism, shot-making, and confidence were on full display, as he went toe-to-toe with none other than Stephen Curry himself. Game after game, Green responded to the moment—hitting clutch threes, attacking the rim with ferocity, and playing with an edge that electrified fans.
But perhaps the biggest revelation of the series was Amen Thompson. The rookie’s combination of size, defensive instincts, and court vision turned heads across the league. Whether he was guarding Curry full-court, crashing the glass, or initiating the fast break, Thompson played well beyond his years. His all-around impact on both ends of the floor gave the Rockets a chance in every game—and made it clear why he’s seen as a franchise cornerstone.
Head coach Ime Udoka deserves plenty of credit for guiding this young squad through a tough matchup. His defensive schemes kept the Warriors’ high-powered offense in check for long stretches, and his belief in his young stars never wavered. Houston’s effort, discipline, and grit reflected the culture Udoka is building.
Though the Rockets ultimately fell in Game 7—outmatched by Golden State’s poise and playoff experience—the loss felt less like an ending and more like a beginning. Taking a championship-caliber team to seven games is no small feat, especially for a roster with so many players under 25. The experience gained in this series is invaluable, and the hunger it sparked will likely fuel Houston’s rise moving forward.
For now, the Rockets leave the playoffs with their heads high. Jalen Green silenced doubters. Amen Thompson introduced himself as a future star. And together, they gave the Warriors—and the entire NBA—a real scare.
The message is clear: this young Rockets team is coming. And next time, they may not just push a contender—they might become one.
