The Golden State Warriors and Houston Rockets series continues to intensify, with a notable incident in Game 5 that underscored the escalating tension. Pat Spencer was ejected for headbutting Alperen Sengun late in the game, following a scuffle that included Moses Moody and Trayce Jackson-Davis. Despite Spencer's earlier contributions, which included 11 points and a surge for the Warriors, the Rockets secured a decisive win, shifting the series back to the Bay Area.

The Houston Rockets secured a crucial 131-116 victory over the Golden State Warriors in Game 5, showcasing their offensive prowess by building a substantial 30-point lead by halftime. However, the game took an unexpected turn as the Warriors' bench made a strong 19-5 run to begin the fourth quarter, prompting the Rockets to reintroduce their starters with eight minutes left to regain control.

Despite the win, concerns arose regarding their starters, especially after Alperen Sengun's altercation with Warriors guard Pat Spencer, who was subsequently ejected. ESPN's Bobby Marks highlighted the potential risks of overexerting Houston's key players, just ahead of the critical Game 6 in Golden State. The Rockets will look to capitalize on their momentum and extend the series, with the looming possibility of a winner-take-all Game 7 back in Houston.

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.

Game 5 showcased a remarkable comeback attempt by the Golden State Warriors after being down by 31 points against the Houston Rockets. Their bench, featuring Moses Moody, Pat Spencer, Trayce Jackson-Davis, Kevin Knox, and Braxton Key, delivered a stellar performance, achieving a franchise-record 76 points off the bench. This surge forced Rockets coach Ime Udoka to reinsert his starters, igniting a heated confrontation that led to an ejection.

In a pivotal moment late in the game, a foul by Moody sparked an altercation between Spencer and Rockets star Alperen Sengun, resulting in Spencer's ejection for a headbutting motion. The incident marked a turning point, with the Rockets eventually winning 131-116 but the Warriors bench earning a moral victory heading into Game 6.

Amen Thompson delivered a stunning performance, leading the Houston Rockets to a crucial 131-116 victory over the Golden State Warriors in Game 5, keeping their playoff hopes alive. This win comes after the Rockets faced potential elimination in the first round of the playoffs. Thompson showcased his skills with a game-high +32 plus-minus in just 25 minutes, scoring 25 points along with 6 rebounds, 5 steals, and 3 blocks. This surge maintained the Rockets' momentum against the Warriors, who still hold a 3-2 lead in the series.

Other key contributors included Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks, each scoring 25 points, while Alperen Sengun nearly recorded a triple-double with 15 points, 9 assists, and 9 rebounds. Houston improved significantly at the free-throw line, converting 32 of 38 attempts, which was pivotal in their strong offensive showing. Game 6 is set for Friday night in San Francisco, where the Rockets aim to force a decisive Game 7 back home.