Sun Apr 27 04:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Warriors Grind Out Old-School Victory Over Rockets in Playoff Opener
**HOUSTON, TX** – The Golden State Warriors edged out the Houston Rockets 95-85 in a throwback Game 1 clash of the 2025 Western Conference first-round playoffs at Toyota Center on Sunday night. Warriors coach Steve Kerr described the game as feeling like “1997,” highlighting the Rockets’ old-school, physical style under coach Ime Udoka.
The Rockets, a far cry from their 3-point-heavy James Harden era, struggled mightily from beyond the arc, hitting just 6 of 29 attempts. Their overall field goal percentage was a dismal 34-for-87. While they managed 22 offensive rebounds to Golden State’s six, this was largely due to their poor shooting. This low-volume 3-point approach reflected their regular season ranking, 10th lowest in the league.
The Warriors, while not flawless (shooting 36-for-76 from the field), connected on 12 of 32 three-pointers and played a strong defensive game. Kerr specifically noted the Rockets’ effective use of a two-center lineup featuring Steven Adams and Alperen Sengun, creating a physical inside game that challenged Golden State.
Despite their championship pedigree built on Steph Curry’s revolutionary three-point shooting, the Warriors found themselves needing to adapt to a slower, more physical style of play. Kerr indicated that winning, regardless of the low scoring, is the ultimate priority. The series promises to be a battle of contrasting styles, with the Warriors needing to continue their embrace of old-school basketball to advance.
First Piper 