The Houston Rockets clinched a hard-fought Game 5 against the Golden State Warriors, highlighted by a dramatic late-game incident. With less than five minutes left, the game saw a scuffle between players, resulting in Warrior Pat Spencer being ejected after headbutting Alperen Şengün. The clash began when Dillon Brooks was fouled by Spencer, prompting Şengün to confront him, which escalated tensions on the court.

Reinforcements arrived as Trayce Jackson-Davis stepped in to defend his teammate, shoving Şengün in the process. Officials intervened, leading to multiple technical fouls being issued, with both teams collectively amassing 15 technicals throughout the series, now led by the Warriors 3-2. This physicality mirrors the fierce rivalry between the two teams, making the series as thrilling as expected.