Warriors Blow 3-1 Lead, Head Back to Houston for Pivotal Game 7 Amid Mounting Criticism of Steve Kerr

The Golden State Warriors, once sitting comfortably with a commanding 3-1 lead over the Houston Rockets in their first-round playoff series, now find themselves heading back to Houston for a do-or-die Game 7. Their 115-107 loss at home on Friday night marked their second consecutive defeat and set up a high-stakes showdown on the road, where they’ll need to secure another away win in order to advance to the Western Conference semifinals.

The loss has sent shockwaves through Dub Nation, as frustration mounts over the team’s inability to close out the series — and much of that ire is now being directed at longtime head coach Steve Kerr. Fans were quick to criticize Kerr’s lack of adjustments and passive approach during a crucial fourth quarter, when the Rockets surged ahead and seized control of Game 6.

Golden State entered the final period trailing by just two points, but momentum quickly shifted when they gave up a four-point play to start the quarter. From there, the offense sputtered, hampered by the Rockets’ aggressive, switch-heavy defense that effectively neutralized Stephen Curry’s impact on the game. While Houston executed with confidence and intensity, the Warriors struggled to respond, with possessions growing more stagnant as time ticked away.

On social media and fan forums, Kerr’s rotations and late-game strategy became a central point of criticism. Some supporters questioned his decision to stay with struggling lineups, while others were frustrated by the lack of urgency as Houston chipped away at Golden State’s composure and confidence.

Game 7 now looms as a defining moment — not just for the Warriors’ season, but for the narrative surrounding Kerr’s leadership in this series. Should Golden State manage to bounce back with a road win under pressure, it could help quiet the criticism and restore faith in the team’s championship mettle. But a loss, especially after once holding a 3-1 advantage, would likely ignite deeper questions about the team’s direction and coaching philosophy.

The series finale tips off at 8:30 p.m. EDT (5:30 p.m. PDT) on Sunday and will be broadcast on TNT, truTV, and streamed live on MAX. With everything on the line, the basketball world will be watching to see whether the Warriors can rise to the occasion — or crumble under the weight of their own expectations.