Rockets Defeat Warriors 104-100 in Thrilling Comeback Victory

The Houston Rockets staged an impressive second-half comeback to defeat the Golden State Warriors 104-100 on November 26, 2025, in San Francisco, marking a significant turnaround from their previous playoff encounter last season. This tightly contested matchup saw the Rockets overturn a 12-point halftime deficit, powered by a breakout performance from rookie Reed Sheppard, who poured in a career-high 31 points along with nine rebounds and five assists. The game’s pivotal moment came late in the fourth quarter. With just six seconds remaining, Golden State’s Moses Moody—who reached the 2,000-point milestone in his NBA career—drained a clutch three-pointer to bring the Warriors within two points. However, Moody then fouled Sheppard, who calmly converted both free throws to seal the win for Houston. This victory gives the Rockets their seventh win in eight games, a testament to their recent form and resilience. Statistically, the Rockets capitalized on the Warriors’ errors, converting 22 points off 16 Golden State turnovers. Alperen Sengun added a strong all-around effort with 16 points, six rebounds, and six assists. The team overcame a cold start, shooting just 39.6% in the first half and trailing 59-47 at the break. But a late third-quarter surge, highlighted by consecutive baskets from Sheppard, cut the deficit to two, setting up a dramatic fourth quarter where Houston began with a 5-0 run. For the Golden State Warriors, Jimmy Butler led the way with 21 points, five rebounds, and five assists, while rookie Will Richard chipped in 18 points and veteran Stephen Curry added 14. Draymond Green returned from a sprained right foot to contribute 12 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists. Notably, Curry and Houston’s Amen Thompson both suffered hard falls late in the game during a key play that was initially called an offensive foul on Thompson but was overturned to a block on Curry after a challenge by Houston. Both teams were shorthanded: the Rockets missed Steven Adams (right ankle injury) and former Warrior Kevin Durant (personal matter), while the Warriors played without Al Horford (sciatica) and Jonathan Kuminga (knee tendinitis), who is rehabbing with the G League affiliate. This result is particularly meaningful in the context of the teams’ recent rivalry. Last season, the Warriors narrowly knocked out the Rockets in Game 7 of the first playoff round. Now, Houston has not only avenged that loss but also demonstrated their growth and depth, especially with the emergence of Sheppard as a key scoring option. Looking ahead, the Rockets will face the Utah Jazz in back-to-back games, aiming to extend their hot streak, while the Warriors are set to host the New Orleans Pelicans in a game featuring the return of Kevon Looney to Golden State. For full game stats, highlights, and shot charts, visit Houston Rockets vs Golden State Warriors Game Summary and AP NBA for further coverage.