Houston Rockets point guard Amen Thompson stole the spotlight with a dominating performance in Game 5 of their playoff series against the Golden State Warriors. Down 3-1, Thompson’s team rallied behind his incredible individual effort, taking down the Warriors 131-116 and forcing a decisive Game 6.
Thompson scored 25 points, grabbed six rebounds, and snagged five steals, while also blocking three shots and dishing out three assists. He also became the first Rockets player in over two decades to score 10 points with five steals in a half.
The key to Thompson’s success was his tenacious defense, particularly against Warriors star Stephen Curry. The Rockets’ point guard conducted a defensive clinic, limiting Curry to just 13 points on six-of-22 shooting. Meanwhile, teammate Dillon Brooks had similar success, clamping down on Jimmy Butler.
Thompson logged three steals in the first half alone, sparking a defensive frenzy that helped Houston build an insurmountable lead. The Rockets’ stingy defense limited the Warriors to just six of 22 shooting from the field during the game.
“We need that Amen every single night,” said teammate Dillon Brooks. “He was reading Steph, reading a lot of the guys, staying in front, being disciplined on the defensive end without reaching.”
Thompson’s performance sparked his team and gave them renewed energy. “It’s hard to pick up full court a guy like Curry,” said Rockets coach Ime Udoka. “Amen got his hands on a few balls, got those steals and ignited us there.”
Source: https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44944453/amen-thompson-all-game-5-powers-rockets-warriors