As the Houston Rockets found themselves trailing 3-1 in their first-round playoff series against the Warriors, Amen Thompson appeared calm and confident. During the team’s morning shootaround at Memorial Hermann training facility, Thompson shared that he was feeling “amazing” and “great,” reflecting a sense of optimism despite the odds.
Thompson had just watched his twin brother, Ausar, lead the Detroit Pistons to a critical victory the night before, which seemed to reinforce his belief that Houston’s fortunes could change in a similar fashion. Amen found strength in the parallels between his team’s situation and his brother’s series, hoping for the same turnaround in his own playoff run.
Thompson’s Defensive Mastery and All-Around Performance Lead Rockets to Game 5 Victory
Thompson made a significant impact in Game 5 against the Warriors, contributing in multiple facets of the game. His defense set the tone early, as he recorded five steals in the first half alone, which helped the Rockets dominate the opening period and establish a commanding lead.
Houston surged ahead with a 76-49 halftime advantage, thanks in part to Thompson’s intensity on defense. He finished with a stat line of 25 points, 6 rebounds, 5 steals, 3 blocks, and 3 assists, becoming the first Rockets player in 25 years to record 10 points and 5 steals in a playoff half. Additionally, Thompson became the first player since Charles Barkley in 1993 to notch 25 points, 5 steals, and 3 blocks in a postseason game.
Amen Thompson (NBA)Thompson’s defensive efforts were particularly evident in his matchup against Warriors’ star Stephen Curry. Thompson took the challenge personally, using his defensive tenacity to frustrate Curry and the Golden State offense. Rockets guard Dillon Brooks praised Thompson for his discipline and awareness, noting how his aggressive defense forced Curry into tough situations, limiting the superstar to just 13 points on 6-of-22 shooting.
The Rockets’ defensive strategy worked in tandem with Brooks’ own strong defense on Jimmy Butler, helping to stifle two of the league’s top players. Thompson’s ability to read the game and make timely steals provided Houston with extra possessions and helped take away Golden State’s rhythm.
Amen Thompson’s All-Around Performance Powers Rockets’ Dominant Victory, Pushing for Game 6
While Thompson was outstanding defensively, he also showcased his offensive skillset. He shot 8-for-12 from the field, including a perfect 1-for-1 from three-point range. His all-around performance was vital to the Rockets’ success, and he played a major role in a well-balanced team effort.
Fred VanVleet led the charge with 26 points, while Dillon Brooks added 24 points. The Rockets’ offense was efficient, shooting 55.1% from the field and 43.3% from beyond the arc. The team also capitalized on 14 Warriors turnovers, scoring 18 points off those mistakes, further amplifying their commanding performance.
Thompson’s standout performance in Game 5 put him in rare company. He became just the fifth player in NBA history to record 25 points, 5 steals, and 3 blocks in a playoff game, a feat not achieved since the 1990s. Additionally, Amen and his brother Ausar became the fifth pair of brothers in the past 30 years to each log a 20-point game in the same postseason.
Houston’s head coach, Ime Udoka, highlighted Thompson’s ability to take on difficult assignments, such as guarding Curry without fouling, and praised his well-rounded game. With the Rockets now facing a Game 6, Thompson’s performance provides hope that the team can stage a comeback and extend their playoff series.
