In an exhilarating playoff opener, the Golden State Warriors clinched a hard-fought victory against the Houston Rockets, showcasing the enduring brilliance of 37-year-old Steph Curry. Despite the Warriors jumping to an early 23-point lead, the Rockets rallied back with a formidable double big lineup featuring Steven Adams and Alperen Şengün. Key contributions from role players like Moses Moody proved pivotal, with Moody hitting crucial baskets down the stretch, emphasizing the importance of depth as the playoffs progress.

Defensively, the Warriors displayed resilience while the Rockets struggled with shooting efficiency, particularly from their backcourt. As the series continues, the ability of both teams to adjust will be crucial. The Warriors, with their veteran savvy, will need to keep their role players engaged, while the Rockets must find a way to convert their rebounding dominance into scoring opportunities.