Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr is known for his wit, and his recent comments about preparing for the Houston Rockets’ physicality were no exception.
When asked during a press conference about how the Warriors were addressing the Rockets’ aggressive style of play, Kerr responded with a touch of sarcasm:
“No, I didn’t mention it at all. I totally forgot to tell the team that Houston is really physical and great on the glass. Thanks for the reminder, and I’m gonna mention it before Game 2.”
Steve Kerr: “I totally forgot to tell the team that Houston is really physical and great on the glass. Thanks for the reminder and I’m gonna mention it before game 2” pic.twitter.com/FMlEofR44z
— Oh No He Didn’t (@ohnohedidnt24) April 21, 2025
Kerr’s quip, while humorous, underscored the challenges the Warriors face in their first-round playoff series against a young and physical Rockets team. The Warriors narrowly secured a 95-85 victory in Game 1, but the Rockets’ dominance on the boards and their physical defense were evident throughout the contest.
The Rockets out-rebounded the Warriors 52-36 and outscored them 54-34 in the paint, using their physicality to disrupt Golden State’s offensive flow. Despite these struggles, the Warriors leaned on their veteran stars, with Jimmy Butler and Stephen Curry combining for 56 points to secure the win. The Rockets, on the other hand, struggled offensively, with Jalen Green and Fred VanVleet shooting a combined 7-for-34 from the field.
Kerr’s sarcastic response reflects his confidence in the Warriors’ ability to adapt and adjust. Known for his strategic acumen, Kerr has consistently emphasized the importance of physicality and rebounding in playoff basketball. His comments also serve as a reminder that the Warriors, despite their reputation as a finesse team, are no strangers to physical play.
“We’re a very physical team too,” Kerr said in a separate interview. “We’ve been very good in the playoffs by playing a physical game. I welcome all of that. The series will unfold, and teams will complain about officiating. We will, they will—it’s all a part of it.”
As the Warriors prepare for Game 2, they will need to address the Rockets’ strengths on the glass and in the paint. Rookie center Quinten Post and veteran Draymond Green will play key roles in matching Houston’s physicality, while Curry and Butler will look to exploit the Rockets’ defensive gaps.
For the Rockets, the focus will be on improving their offensive efficiency and capitalizing on their rebounding advantage. Head coach Ime Udoka has already made it clear that his team will continue to embrace their physical style, setting the stage for another intense battle.
