SAN FRANCISCO – Proving their mettle against an elite opponent, the shorthanded Houston Rockets scored a gutsy 104-100 victory over the Golden State Warriors on Wednesday. Playing without superstar Kevin Durant, the young Rockets showcased their burgeoning potential, avenging last season’s playoff heartbreak and leaning on a career night from sophomore guard Reed Sheppard to seal the signature win.
Nov 19, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) passes during the first half against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Dermer-Imagn Images
1. The Reed Sheppard Breakout Game
With the spotlight firmly on him, Reed Sheppard delivered the finest performance of his young career. The 21-year-old guard exploded for 31 points and 9 rebounds, carrying the offensive load with a dazzling mid-range shooting display. After a quiet game against Phoenix, Sheppard’s commanding response cemented his case as the team’s floor general of the future, single-handedly keeping the Rockets afloat when other starters struggled.
2. A Testament to Team Resilience
The victory was forged through pure grit. The Rockets weathered a storm in the third quarter, falling behind by 14 points as the Warriors threatened to pull away. Instead of folding, Houston mounted a fierce 15-6 run to close the quarter, cutting the deficit to just two points and setting the stage for a dramatic fourth-quarter finish. This comeback highlighted the team’s growing mental toughness.
3. A Defensive Masterclass on Steph Curry
The Rockets’ game plan centered on neutralizing Stephen Curry, and the execution was flawless. Led by Amen Thompson’s tenacious on-ball defense, Houston held the two-time MVP to a paltry 14 points on 4-of-13 shooting (2-of-9 from deep). This defensive discipline, overcoming their own poor three-point shooting (28%), was the ultimate key to victory.
While the win wasn’t enough to secure an NBA Cup knockout stage berth, its symbolic value is immense. By defeating a championship contender on the road without their best player, the Rockets sent a clear message: they are no longer a team of the future, but a resilient and dangerous force in the present.