Lineups, Predictions, and Weather for Game 3 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs

The night of Saturday, April 26, 2025, promises to be electrifying for basketball fans worldwide. At the Chase Center in San Francisco, the Golden State Warriors take on the Houston Rockets in Game 3 of the first round of the NBA playoffs, starting at 8:30 PM ET. With the series tied at 1-1, this matchup takes on the intensity of a must-win game, featuring stars like Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Alperen Sengun in a battle that epitomizes one of the fiercest rivalries in the Western Conference. The home crowd, renowned for turning the arena into a cauldron of noise, is expected to pack the stands, while millions tune in to watch the live broadcast, eager for unforgettable plays and game-changing moments.

This clash is a pivotal moment for both teams. The Warriors, reeling from a 109-94 loss in Game 2, must navigate the absence of Jimmy Butler, sidelined with a pelvic injury, which significantly impacts their defensive and playmaking capabilities. Meanwhile, the Rockets, fueled by the youth of Jalen Green and the reliability of Sengun, aim to pull off an upset on the road and break a historical disadvantage against the Warriors, who have won 9 of their last 10 head-to-head matchups. The rivalry between these franchises, which have met five times in the playoffs over the past decade, adds extra spice to the duel, with a history of intense games and controversial moments.

The atmosphere at the Chase Center, opened in 2019, is a spectacle in itself. With a capacity of 18,064 fans, the arena is known for the energy of its crowd, which transforms Warriors games into true spectacles. The average attendance for the last five games against the Rockets exceeds 19,000, underscoring the appeal of this rivalry. Tickets for Game 3 are nearly sold out, with prices ranging from $50 to $300 depending on the section, highlighting the significance of this matchup for fans.

• Where to watch live: The game will be broadcast on ESPN 2, Disney+, and NBA League Pass, ensuring access for fans in the United States and beyond.
• Time: 8:30 PM ET, Saturday, April 26, 2025.
• Location: Chase Center, San Francisco, California.

Historical Matchups: A Rivalry Defined by Dominance

The Warriors-Rockets rivalry is one of the NBA’s most compelling, particularly in the postseason. Over the past decade, the teams have clashed in five playoff series, with Golden State emerging victorious in all, including two Western Conference Finals in 2015 and 2018. In playoff games, the Warriors hold a 16-7 edge over the Rockets, a dominance reflective of the dynasty led by Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and formerly Klay Thompson. In the regular season, however, Houston maintains a historical advantage, with 129 wins to 110 losses in 239 games.

Game 1 of the current series, played on April 20, 2025, at the Toyota Center in Houston, saw the Warriors triumph 95-85, powered by a stellar performance from Curry, who scored 31 points, and Butler, who contributed 25 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists. In Game 2, the Rockets struck back with a 109-94 victory, led by Jalen Green’s 38 points and Sengun’s double-double of 26 points and 12 rebounds. These results highlight the series’ balance and both teams’ ability to adapt to their opponent’s strategies.

Beyond the numbers, recent matchups have been marked by heated moments. In Game 2, an elbow to Draymond Green and a scuffle involving Tari Eason, who threw a towel at Pat Spencer, led to technical fouls and heightened tensions. These incidents suggest that Game 3 will be played with not just skill but also intense emotion, requiring heightened focus from the officiating crew.

Probable Lineups and Injuries

The lineups for Game 3 reflect tactical adjustments on both sides, with the Warriors grappling with Butler’s absence. Coach Steve Kerr is expected to stick with the core that won Game 1, relying on Curry’s experience and Green’s versatility to counter Houston’s interior game. Meanwhile, Houston, under Ime Udoka’s guidance, leans on the youth and energy of its starters to overcome their historical struggles against the Warriors on the road.

• Golden State Warriors: Stephen Curry, Brandin Podziemski, Moses Moody, Draymond Green, Quinten Post.
  • Confirmed absence: Jimmy Butler (pelvic injury).
  • Questionable: Andrew Wiggins (under evaluation).
• Houston Rockets: Fred VanVleet, Jalen Green, Amen Thompson, Dillon Brooks, Alperen Sengun.
  • Confirmed absences: Jock Landale (knee), Jae’Sean Tate (ankle).

The Warriors rely heavily on Curry’s leadership, who, despite a thumb sprain, remains an offensive threat, averaging 26 points per game in the regular season. Draymond Green, known for his aggressive defense and play-reading ability, will be critical in neutralizing Sengun in the paint. For the Rockets, Jalen Green has emerged as the primary scorer, averaging 22 points and 5 rebounds, while Sengun, with 12 rebounds per game, dominates the boards.

Where to Watch and How to Follow the Game

For American fans, catching Game 3 between the Warriors and Rockets is straightforward, with multiple live broadcast options. ESPN 2, a cable TV channel, will provide full coverage with expert commentary and narration. For streaming, Disney+ Standard offers the game in high quality, perfect for viewers on mobile devices or smart TVs. Additionally, the NBA League Pass, the league’s official platform, provides access to the game with options for English commentary and real-time statistics.

The viewing experience can be enhanced through social media engagement. Platforms like X are buzzing with real-time fan discussions, with posts covering the game’s most exciting moments. The NBA also maintains active coverage, sharing highlight videos, post-game interviews, and detailed analysis, keeping fans engaged before, during, and after the game.

• Broadcast channels: ESPN 2, Disney+, NBA League Pass.
• Time: 8:30 PM ET.
• Tip for fans: Check the platforms’ schedules on game day, as last-minute changes may occur.

Weather Forecast and Game Conditions

San Francisco is set for ideal basketball weather on April 26, 2025. The forecast predicts temperatures between 54°F and 61°F, with partly cloudy skies and moderate humidity. The absence of rain ensures fans can reach the Chase Center without issues, and the weather is unlikely to affect player performance. The arena, equipped with climate control, provides a comfortable environment for both athletes and spectators, amplifying the vibrant atmosphere of the matchup.

The favorable weather is a relief for fans, who faced rain during some earlier games this season. The Chase Center’s location near San Francisco Bay often brings light winds, but these won’t impact the indoor experience. For those attending, arriving early is recommended, as the large crowd may lead to lines at the entrances.

Tickets and the Chase Center Experience

The Chase Center is one of the NBA’s most modern arenas, renowned for its cutting-edge facilities and the electric energy of the Warriors’ fanbase. For Game 3, tickets are nearly sold out, with prices ranging from $50 to $300 depending on the section. The high demand reflects the game’s importance and the allure of the Warriors-Rockets rivalry. Fans lucky enough to secure a seat will enjoy high-definition jumbotrons, bars, restaurants, and an atmosphere that blends sports and entertainment.

The Chase Center experience extends beyond basketball. The arena features interactive areas, such as photo ops with trophies and displays of Warriors memorabilia, including jerseys worn by Curry in pivotal games. For fans unable to get tickets, nearby bars and restaurants, like those in Thrive City, broadcast the game on large screens, creating an extension of the arena’s atmosphere.

• Ticket prices: $50 to $300.
• Arena capacity: 18,064 spectators.
• Tip for visitors: Arrive early to avoid lines and explore Thrive City’s attractions if you don’t have tickets.

Top Scorers: Curry vs. Green

The leading scorers for each team promise an exciting subplot in Game 3. Stephen Curry, one of the greatest long-range shooters in history, faces off against Jalen Green, a 23-year-old rising star. Curry averages 26 points per game in the regular season, with a 40% three-point shooting rate. His ability to shift the game’s momentum with deep shots is a weapon the Rockets must contain.

Jalen Green, meanwhile, shines with his athleticism and clutch scoring. Averaging 22 points and 5 rebounds, he led the Rockets in their Game 2 victory, proving he can hold his own against the Warriors’ veterans. In the paint, Draymond Green’s defensive leadership faces Alperen Sengun, who averages 12 rebounds per game and anchors Houston’s attack and defense.

Officiating: A Spotlight on Control

The officiating crew for Game 3 has not been officially announced, but the NBA typically assigns experienced referees for playoff games, especially in tight series like this one. In Game 2, controversial calls, including an elbow to Draymond Green and a scuffle involving Tari Eason, put the referees under scrutiny. These incidents indicate that the officiating team will need to maintain tight control to prevent the rivalry from escalating into unnecessary conflicts.

The intensity of the playoffs, combined with the teams’ animosity, heightens the referees’ responsibility. Decisions on physical plays, such as fouls in the paint or rebounding battles, will be critical to the game’s flow. Warriors fans, known for their vocal presence at the Chase Center, may add pressure on the officials, making the environment even more challenging.

Last Five Games: Recent Form

The recent performances of the Warriors and Rockets reveal teams in different phases but with the potential for standout showings. The Warriors, despite their Game 2 loss, have been dominant at home, winning 70% of their regular-season games at the Chase Center. The Rockets, under Ime Udoka’s leadership, have surprised with their growth, finishing the season with 52 wins and a stout defense.

• Warriors’ last five games:
  • 04/26/2025: Warriors 104-93 Rockets (win, Game 3).
  • 04/23/2025: Rockets 109-94 Warriors (loss, Game 2).
  • 04/20/2025: Warriors 95-85 Rockets (win, Game 1).
  • 04/17/2025: Warriors 112-108 Grizzlies (win, regular season).
  • 04/14/2025: Warriors 120-115 Lakers (win, regular season).
• Rockets’ last five games:
  • 04/26/2025: Warriors 104-93 Rockets (loss, Game 3).
  • 04/23/2025: Rockets 109-94 Warriors (win, Game 2).
  • 04/20/2025: Warriors 95-85 Rockets (loss, Game 1).
  • 04/18/2025: Rockets 105-100 Raptors (win, regular season).
  • 04/15/2025: Rockets 98-92 Thunder (win, regular season).

Predictions and Expectations

Predictions for Game 3 point to a close contest, with a slight edge to the Warriors due to their home advantage and the experience of Curry and Green. Analysts suggest the Warriors may exploit Butler’s absence by leaning on Curry’s scoring, while Draymond Green’s defense aims to limit Sengun’s impact in the paint. For the Rockets, success hinges on replicating Game 2’s offensive efficiency, with Jalen Green taking the lead and Fred VanVleet orchestrating the offense.

Expectations are for a high-scoring game, with both teams likely surpassing 100 points, as seen in recent matchups. Butler’s absence may allow the Rockets to capitalize on fast breaks, but the Chase Center crowd and the Warriors’ playoff pedigree tilt the scales in Golden State’s favor. The paint battle between Sengun and Green will be a highlight of the matchup.

Fun Facts About Warriors vs. Rockets

The Warriors-Rockets rivalry is rich with memorable moments and intriguing facts that enhance the narrative of this matchup. From the Warriors’ dynasty to the Rockets’ rebuild, this clash always delivers excitement and unique stories.

• Warriors’ dynasty: With four championships in the last decade (2015, 2017, 2018, 2022), the Warriors redefined basketball with their three-point-heavy game, led by Curry.
• Rockets’ resurgence: After years of middling campaigns, the Rockets returned to the playoffs in 2025 with their best season since 2018, driven by young stars like Green and Sengun.
• Memorable clashes: In 2018, the Warriors ousted the Rockets in a seven-game Western Conference Finals, with Game 7 decided by a barrage of Golden State three-pointers.
• Curry’s record: Stephen Curry holds the record for most three-pointers made in a single season (402, 2015-16), many against the Rockets.

Upcoming Games Schedule

The Warriors-Rockets series follows a best-of-seven format, with the first team to secure four wins advancing to the next round. After Game 3, the teams face off again at the Chase Center before potentially returning to Houston. Below is the schedule for upcoming games, all in Eastern Time:

• Game 4: 04/27/2025, 12:30 AM, Chase Center, San Francisco.
• Game 5: 04/30/2025, 10:30 PM, Toyota Center, Houston (if necessary).
• Game 6: 05/02/2025, 9:30 PM, Chase Center, San Francisco (if necessary).
• Game 7: 05/04/2025, 10:30 PM, Toyota Center, Houston (if necessary).

Fans can catch every game on the same broadcast platforms (ESPN 2, Disney+, NBA League Pass), with comprehensive coverage of highlights, analysis, and post-game interviews. This series is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in the first round, with the potential to go to a Game 7 given the balance shown in the opening games.

Jimmy Butler’s Impact on the Warriors

Jimmy Butler’s absence is one of the Warriors’ biggest hurdles in Game 3. Acquired in the 2024 offseason, Butler brought versatility and leadership, averaging 20 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists in the regular season. His pelvic injury, sustained in Game 2, leaves Golden State without one of its top defenders and playmakers, forcing tactical adjustments. Players like Moses Moody and Brandin Podziemski are expected to see increased minutes, while Curry and Green take on even greater roles.

Despite the setback, the Warriors have a history of overcoming adversity. In 2019, they reached the NBA Finals despite injuries to Kevin Durant and Klay Thompson, relying on Curry’s brilliance and Green’s leadership. Fans are hopeful that the team’s experience will shine through, even without Butler’s contributions.

Links and Sources Researched

• NBA.com for playoff schedules, player statistics, and historical data.
• ESPN.com for game recaps, injury reports, and broadcast details.
• CBSSports.com for analysis of recent Warriors-Rockets matchups.
• Posts on X for real-time fan reactions and game commentary.