houston Rockets defeat Golden State Warriors 102-100, Fueled by Reed Sheppard and Second-Half surge
HOUSTON – The Houston rockets completed a 14-point comeback to defeat the Golden State Warriors 102-100 on Monday night, showcasing a strong second-half performance and key contributions from rookie reed Sheppard.The victory ties the Rockets’ largest comeback of the season, matching wins against the Orlando magic and Milwaukee Bucks earlier this month.
The Warriors led by as many as 14 points in the third quarter, but the rockets outscored them 16-0 in the second half. A pivotal play in the fourth quarter saw Sheppard deliver a pass to Dillon Brooks for a layup, extending Houston’s lead to six points with 1:27 remaining. Alperen Şengün followed with a fadeaway jumper to maintain a six-point advantage after the Warriors scored.
Despite a late rally from Golden State, including a 3-pointer from Moses Moody that narrowed the gap to 102-100 with 16 seconds left, Sheppard secured the win with two clutch free throws.
Sheppard’s impact extended beyond the assist to Brooks. The Rockets focused on limiting Stephen Curry, acknowledging his scoring prowess. “You have to respect him,the attention you have to draw,sometimes two on him,and live with the other shots,” a Rockets player stated.
The Rockets’ comeback began late in the third quarter with a 15-4 run, capped by Sheppard’s fadeaway and a dunk, before Quinten Post gave Golden State a 76-74 lead heading into the final period. Houston opened the fourth quarter with a 3-pointer from Jalen Holiday and a layup from JD Davison to take their first lead of the game.
The Warriors were visibly frustrated by their defensive struggles. Draymond Green expressed his dissatisfaction, stating, “Our defense is sh-…It’s bigger than the numbers. Defense is about demeanor. If there’s letdown after letdown, then it kills your demeanor, it kills your bravado, then your just a soft team.”
Stephen Curry hobbled off the court late in the game, but the rockets were able to hold on for the victory.
