The Houston Rockets surprised many by finishing second in the Western Conference during the 2024/25 NBA season, pushing the seasoned Golden State Warriors to a full seven-game series in the playoffs. Despite the close contest, Alperen Sengun expressed that the Rockets deserved to advance further and openly questioned the officiating, particularly decisions favoring Stephen Curry and the Warriors. In response, NBA champion Robert Horry urged the young Rockets squad to temper their frustrations and focus on growth.
Robert Horry Points to Youth and Inexperience as Key Factors
On the Big Shot Bob podcast, Horry emphasized that while the Rockets performed impressively throughout the regular season, their early playoff exit highlighted a lack of collective experience. He suggested that although the Rockets dominated many aspects of play, they needed to manage the pressures and pace required for postseason success more effectively.
Horry also noted that Warriors games featuring Curry attract higher television ratings, partly because of Curry’s iconic shooting style compared to Sengun’s inside game. He implied that the Rockets should have entered the series anticipating a tough battle and adjusted their strategy to maintain composure amid adversity.
Kevin Durant’s Arrival Gives Sengun Confidence to Speak Out
Horry believes Sengun’s recent outspoken stance is influenced by the Rockets adding Kevin Durant to their roster. Having a veteran superstar like Durant is seen as a source of support that could embolden younger players to stand their ground.
“We talk about it all the time, we talk about the fouls and the discrepancy in fouls, it is what it is. If you go out with a gameplan and kick their a**, you ain’t gotta worry about the fouls,”
Horry said.
“If you come out and be aggressive and don’t let someone put you on your heels, it’s a different story.”
Although the Rockets managed to rally from a 3-1 series deficit to force Game 7, they struggled in critical moments, ultimately giving the advantage back to the Warriors. Horry interpreted Sengun’s comments as frustration over that outcome, amplified by his newfound confidence with Durant joining the team.
“Plus, I think if I’m Sengun, I’m gonna say this because next year, I got my big brother KD coming in.. Someone talks some s**t, I don’t care…,”
Horry added with a laugh.
Durant’s History Against the Warriors Adds Intrigue to Upcoming Rivalry
While Durant’s presence undoubtedly raises the Rockets’ profile and competitive edge, his previous attempts to overcome the Warriors with Brooklyn and Phoenix fell short. This history suggests that despite Sengun’s bold remarks, the Warriors remain a formidable opponent likely to keep fighting for supremacy. Whether the Rockets can leverage Durant’s arrival to ultimately surpass Golden State remains a question for the coming season.
One certainty is that provoking Stephen Curry, known for thriving under pressure, could invite consequences on the court. The Rockets’ evolving rivalry with the Warriors promises intense battles ahead, fueled by both youthful ambition and established championship experience.