Alperen Sengün vs. Draymond Green: Intensity, Impact, and Controversy in Rockets vs. Warriors Game 1

Introduction

Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Western Conference Playoffs between the Houston Rockets and Golden State Warriors delivered an unforgettable spectacle. The night was dominated not only by high-level basketball but also by the fierce clash between Rockets center Alperen Sengün and Warriors veteran Draymond Green. From highlight dunks to physical fouls and heated debates, the match became a defining moment early in the playoffs.

The Dunk Heard Around the NBA

Alperen Sengün opened Game 1 with an exclamation mark. In the first quarter, he posterized Draymond Green with a ferocious one-handed dunk. The moment quickly went viral, captivating fans and analysts alike. It wasn’t just a highlight; it was a statement from the Rockets’ rising star.

The dunk energized the Rockets and set a physical tone for the game. It showed Sengün's confidence, fearlessness, and readiness to carry the team on a major playoff stage.

Draymond Green Responds: Technical and Flagrant Fouls

As tensions built, Draymond Green’s notorious competitive fire kicked in. In the second quarter, Green was assessed a technical foul after shoving Sengün and making contact near his throat—an action that led to immediate backlash from fans and scrutiny from the NBA.

In the third quarter, things escalated when Green’s elbow struck Sengün in the face during a layup attempt. After review, it was deemed a Flagrant 1 foul, granting Houston free throws and possession. These incidents sparked widespread debate about the line between physical playoff play and unsportsmanlike conduct.

Key Performances and Game Flow

Despite the confrontations, the game was a back-and-forth battle:

• Alperen Sengün led the Rockets with 26 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 assists. His dominance in the post and poise amid physical play stood out.

• Stephen Curry responded with 31 points for the Warriors, hitting critical shots late in the fourth to seal the game.

• Jimmy Butler contributed 25 points, including 6 in the final two minutes.

The Warriors ultimately prevailed with a 95–85 win, outscoring the Rockets in crunch time thanks to efficient execution and strong defense.

Tactical Analysis

Houston struggled with efficiency, shooting 39.1% from the field and committing 17 turnovers. Golden State’s veteran defense capitalized on these mistakes, converting them into 25 points.

The Rockets’ poor three-point shooting also allowed the Warriors to pack the paint and double-team Sengün, forcing tough decisions and disrupting offensive rhythm. Meanwhile, the Warriors’ switch-heavy defense and balanced attack created mismatches that they exploited consistently.

The Bigger Picture: Sengün’s Rising Star

Sengün’s Game 1 performance, though in a loss, marked a breakthrough. His composure, physical resilience, and ability to contribute across the board drew praise from across the NBA landscape. He became a trending topic on social media, not just for his dunk, but for his mental toughness in handling Draymond Green’s veteran mind games.

Analysts compared Sengün’s impact to that of early-career Pau Gasol and Nikola Jokic, with many suggesting he’s on the verge of NBA stardom.

What's Next in the Series?

Game 2 shifts to Houston, where the Rockets will look to even the series on home turf. Adjustments expected include:

• Reducing turnovers by simplifying offensive sets

• Increasing bench scoring production

• Spacing the floor better to relieve pressure on Sengün

The physical rivalry between Sengün and Green will remain a focal point, with potential officiating changes based on Game 1’s controversial calls.

Conclusion

Game 1 of the Rockets vs. Warriors series was more than a contest—it was a battle of grit, pride, and playoff passion. Alperen Sengün emerged as both a warrior and a leader, while Draymond Green stayed true to his antagonistic playoff form. As the series progresses, fans can expect even more fireworks—and perhaps, a turning point in the West’s balance of power.