Photo: Golden State Warriors/X

The Golden State Warriors have let two opportunities slip away to finish off their first-round playoff series against the Houston Rockets.

Despite suffering a blowout loss in Game 5 and watching Houston take control late in Game 6, the Warriors are maintaining a calm and confident demeanor as they prepare for a decisive Game 7 on Sunday, reports ESPN’s Ohm Youngmisuk.

There was no trace of panic in the Warriors’ locker room following Friday night’s defeat. Instead, the team projected composure and resilience.

“We’re good. We’re smiling,” said Jimmy Butler. “We’re listening to our music, celebrating life. We’re ready to compete. We were ready to compete tonight. Things didn’t go our way. OK, we’re going to be ready to compete on Sunday. We’re going to make the game go our way.”

Golden State is counting on its deep postseason experience to give them an edge.

Stephen Curry and Draymond Green have played in five Game 7s together, winning three, including a dominant performance in Sacramento during the 2023 playoffs.

Butler, another playoff-tested veteran, has appeared in four Game 7s himself, splitting them evenly at two wins and two losses.

While Houston’s youthful core is facing the intensity of their first playoff series, the Rockets aren’t short on veteran leadership.

Players like Jeff Green, Steven Adams, Fred VanVleet, and Aaron Holiday bring valuable experience, having collectively played in ten Game 7s throughout their careers.

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