Buddy Hield said he “just tried to be himself” before erupting for 33 points and nine three-pointers in Game 7 to help the Golden State Warriors eliminate the Houston Rockets on Sunday night.
Speaking postgame, the 31-year-old forward emphasized his approach heading into the biggest game of his career.
“I was just locked in,” Hield told reporters. “Just trying to find my joy… I never been in this situation before.”
Golden State’s 103-89 win advanced them to the Western Conference semifinals, where they’ll face the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday night.
Hield, who went scoreless in Game 6, set the all-time record for most threes in a Game 7, connecting on 9-of-11 from deep in 37 minutes.
The veteran admitted nerves were high early but said starting the game helped calm his emotions.
“I was talking to Lon earlier… I’m so glad I’m starting tonight,” Hield said. “Coming off the bench for Game 7 would’ve been really hard.”
Golden State held Houston to 33.3% from beyond the arc and pulled away in the fourth quarter behind key buckets from Stephen Curry and a team-wide defensive effort.
Curry scored 22 points, including 14 in the fourth, and added 10 rebounds and seven assists.
Draymond Green contributed 16 points and a +18 plus-minus, while Jimmy Butler added 20 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists.
Hield credited the team’s experienced core for preparing him mentally.
“Jimmy and Steph and Dray—those vets… they know what it’s like,” Hield said. “Just follow the lead.”
The Warriors took command in the second quarter and led by 12 at halftime after holding the Rockets to 20 points in the period.
Amen Thompson led Houston with 24 points, while Alperen Sengun had 21 points and 14 rebounds on 9-of-23 shooting.
Fred VanVleet, who had carried the Rockets offensively in Games 5 and 6, was limited to 17 points on Sunday and committed three turnovers.
Hield also described the feeling of being “in the zone,” comparing it to a spiritual experience where “you and that rim and the net and the ball” are in sync.
He credited Draymond Green’s team speech the night before the game as a pivotal moment for the group.
“When a guy that’s won four championships talks, you listen,” Hield said. “It gave me chills.”
Golden State improved to 28-11 since acquiring Butler in February and became just the seventh No. 7 seed to reach the second round in NBA history.
The Warriors shot 41.9% from three, outscored Houston 33-27 in the final frame, and got contributions from all five starters, including Brandin Podziemski’s nine points.
“When I shot it, I knew I had a chance,” Hield said. “Didn’t know it was going in, but I knew I had a chance.”
Game 1 between the Warriors and Timberwolves tips off Tuesday in Minneapolis.
