**Warriors Triumph in OT as Kuminga and Podziemski Shine Against Rockets**

In a thrilling showdown, the Golden State Warriors emerged victorious against the Houston Rockets, thanks to clutch performances from Jonathan Kuminga and Brandin Podziemski. The Warriors found themselves in a tough spot, having been outscored 39-23 in the fourth quarter. Podziemski, however, scored seven crucial points in the last four minutes, including a 12-foot turnaround fadeaway that pushed the Warriors ahead by six with just 51.5 seconds remaining.

Reflecting on his performance, Podziemski said, "We were getting killed. My mindset was 'I'm going to try to go get a bucket. If we lose, that's how we're going to lose. Someone is going to have to try to get a bucket.' That was my mindset." Despite his effort, the Rockets clawed back with a three-pointer from Jabari Smith Jr. and four free throws, ultimately sending the game into overtime.

With Draymond Green fouled out and the Warriors struggling, having shot only 36.4 percent from the field in the second half, the team faced a daunting task in OT. The Rockets had been on fire, shooting 57.1 percent from the field and 52.6 percent from distance in the third and fourth quarters. However, Coach Steve Kerr made strategic moves by inserting Kevon Looney and Kyle Anderson to improve defense and relying on Kuminga's offensive prowess.

Kuminga did not disappoint. Entering overtime with a determination to excel, he made a significant impact. He started OT with a midrange jumper, followed by a dynamic transition layup, and then another powerful drive to the hoop, extending the Warriors' lead to 127-121 with just over a minute remaining. His tremendous effort earned high praise from Kerr, who stated, "He just took over. He was fantastic."

Draymond Green, who has been a mentor to Kuminga since the youngster was drafted seventh overall in 2021, greeted him off the floor with an embrace. Despite their different strengths, Green has taken a keen interest in Kuminga's development. Similarly, while Podziemski may not possess Stephen Curry's legendary scoring ability, this rookie guard has shown impressive rebounding and defensive skills, traits Curry notably supports.

Although Podziemski and Kuminga may not reach the heights set by Curry and Green, their performances against the Rockets demonstrated that the future is bright for the Warriors. With continued guidance and support from veteran leaders, these young players are proving their worth on the court, showing that they are more than capable of carrying the baton forward.