In a closely contested NBA matchup on April 5, 2026, the Houston Rockets defeated the Golden State Warriors 117-116 at Chase Center in San Francisco. This game marked the return of Warriors star Stephen Curry, who scored 29 points after missing 27 games due to a knee injury.
Curry played 26 minutes, hitting 11 of his 21 shots, showcasing his scoring prowess despite the long absence. His performance was a significant boost for the Warriors, who are virtually assured of the 10th seed in the Western play-in tournament.
On the opposing side, Kevin Durant led the Rockets with a game-high 31 points, further solidifying his impact on the team’s success. Alperen Sengun also played a crucial role, scoring 24 points and making the go-ahead basket that ultimately secured the win for Houston.
The Rockets have now won six consecutive games, demonstrating their strong form as they approach the end of the regular season. This victory against the Warriors adds to their momentum, positioning them favorably in the Western Conference standings.
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr expressed his appreciation for Curry’s return, stating, “He’s one of the most beloved players in league history, Bay Area history in any sport, and I think a long absence like this reminds everybody how lucky we are to see him, to watch him, to coach him, to play with him.”
Kerr also mentioned the strategy for Curry’s minutes, saying, “The plan for tonight would be shorter bursts, and we’ll see on the minutes.” This approach reflects the team’s cautious management of Curry’s return to full health.
The game, part of the 2025-2026 NBA regular season, drew significant attention as fans were eager to see Curry back on the court. His presence was felt throughout the game, energizing both the players and the crowd.
As the season progresses, both teams will look to build on this game, with the Warriors aiming to solidify their playoff positioning and the Rockets continuing their winning streak. The outcome of this matchup may have implications for both teams as they prepare for the postseason.
