Warriors Regroup and Rebound: Key Players Reflect on Game 7 Preparation
In a thrilling turn of events, the Golden State Warriors found themselves facing a daunting Game 7 against the Houston Rockets after a disappointing loss in Game 6. The team’s inability to close out the series two nights prior led to a 103-89 defeat, with their inexperienced opponents outperforming them. With the pressure mounting, the Warriors had to regroup and refocus for the winner-take-all showdown.
According to Coach Steve Kerr, Draymond Green set the tone for Game 7 during a team meeting, owning up to losing his poise in the previous game. Kerr praised Green for living up to his promise of playing with better poise and stability, despite a brief setback in the second quarter when he was called for a technical foul. Buddy Hield, the sharpshooting guard, echoed Kerr’s sentiments, describing the team meeting as "emotional" and led by Green, Steph Curry, and Jimmy Butler. Hield stated that the meeting gave him and his teammates the motivation they needed, saying, "From then, I was just locked in. … [the meeting] gave everybody chills."
The team’s strategy paid off, with Hield delivering a standout "two-way performance" that helped the Warriors avoid a slow start on the road. He scored eight points and provided an assist in the first quarter, making up for Curry’s early struggles. Hield’s impressive 42-foot shot at the end of the quarter gave the Warriors a 23-19 lead. Kerr commended Hield’s defense, stating, "I thought his defense was tremendous tonight, too. This was not just a lights-out shooting performance. It was a two-way performance."
Hield’s efforts also played a significant role in limiting the Rockets’ dynamic scorers, Fred VanVleet and Jalen Green, to subpar shooting nights. VanVleet managed only 17 points, while Green finished with just eight points on eight shots. Kerr praised Hield’s contribution, recognizing his hand in containing Houston’s most potent scorers.
As the Warriors look to move forward, their ability to regroup and rebound from adversity will be crucial. With key players like Green and Hield stepping up, the team is well-equipped to tackle the challenges ahead. The Warriors’ resilience and determination will undoubtedly be tested, but their preparation and teamwork will be essential in overcoming future obstacles.
