Walking into the gym this morning, the smell of sweat and polished hardwood floors hit me like a familiar friend. I’ve spent more mornings than I can count in places like this, watching players grind through drills, push through fatigue, and build the kind of resilience that shows up when the lights are brightest. It’s here, in these quiet hours before the arena fills, that games like tonight’s Game 2 between the Houston Rockets and Golden State Warriors are truly decided. For players like the Rockets’ unsung contributors—think of someone like Jae’Sean Dela Rama, a guy who might not grab headlines but embodies that gym-to-court mentality—it’s all about preparation. Dela Rama, though not a household name, represents something essential: the willingness to prepare your body for the jockeying and physicality against opponents who are often bigger and stronger. That mindset, that gritty dedication, is exactly what the Rockets will need if they hope to pull off what many see as a near-impossible upset against the Warriors tonight.

Let’s talk numbers for a second. The odds heading into this game aren’t exactly in Houston’s favor. Most major sportsbooks have Golden State sitting at around -380 to win outright, with the Rockets hovering at about +310. That’s a steep hill to climb, no doubt. But here’s the thing—I’ve seen crazier things happen on the hardwood. I remember covering the 2016 Finals when Cleveland came back from a 3-1 deficit against a Warriors team that looked invincible. Upsets happen when you least expect them, and tonight, the Rockets have a real shot if they can exploit a few key matchups. Steph Curry and Klay Thompson are phenomenal, but they’re not infallible. Houston’s backcourt, led by Jalen Green and Fred VanVleet, has the speed and tenacity to disrupt Golden State’s rhythm. If they can force turnovers—say, 15 or more—and convert those into fast-break points, we could be looking at a very different ballgame by the fourth quarter.

But it’s not just about the backcourt. The battle in the paint is where this game will be won or lost. Golden State’s front line, anchored by Draymond Green and Kevon Looney, is experienced and physical. They know how to use their size and strength to control the boards and limit second-chance opportunities. For the Rockets, Alperen Şengün and Jabari Smith Jr. will need to step up in a major way. But more than that, it’s the role players—the guys who live in the gym, like the hypothetical Dela Rama—who can make the difference. These are the players who do the dirty work: setting hard screens, fighting for loose balls, and playing relentless defense. I’ve always believed that championships aren’t just won by superstars; they’re won by the players who embrace their roles and outwork everyone else. If Houston’s bench can contribute 30-plus points and hold their own defensively, they’ll keep this game within reach.

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: the Warriors’ home-court advantage. The Chase Center is a tough place to play, with one of the loudest and most passionate fan bases in the league. The energy in that building can rattle even the most seasoned opponents. But the Rockets have shown flashes of resilience on the road this season. They’ve won 5 of their last 10 away games, including an impressive comeback victory against the Clippers last month. If they can weather the early storm and stay composed—something I’ve seen them struggle with in the past—they’ve got a real chance. Personally, I love watching underdog teams thrive in hostile environments. There’s something special about silencing a crowd and proving the doubters wrong. Houston has the talent to do exactly that, but it’ll require near-perfect execution and a little bit of luck.

Of course, coaching will play a huge role in this matchup. Steve Kerr is a master tactician, and his ability to make in-game adjustments is second to none. Ime Udoka, on the other hand, brings a defensive-minded approach that could give the Warriors fits. I’ve always been a fan of coaches who prioritize defense because, in the playoffs, stops often matter more than buckets. If Udoka can devise a scheme that limits Golden State’s three-point shooting—holding them to under 35% from beyond the arc, for example—the Rockets will be in a great position. But it’s easier said than done. The Warriors are shooting a collective 38.5% from three this postseason, and containing them requires discipline and communication. Houston’s players will need to be on a string defensively, switching seamlessly and closing out on shooters without overcommitting.

As tip-off approaches, I can’t help but feel a sense of anticipation. Games like this are why I love covering the NBA. The stakes are high, the narratives are compelling, and the outcome is anything but certain. While the odds may favor Golden State, I’ve learned never to count out a team that plays with heart and preparation. The Rockets have the talent and the grit to pull off the upset, but it’ll come down to whether they can translate those hours in the gym into 48 minutes of focused, physical basketball. If they do, we could be witnessing one of the most memorable games of the postseason. If not, well, the Warriors will remind everyone why they’re considered one of the greatest dynasties in modern sports. Either way, I’ll be watching with bated breath, notebook in hand, ready to see how it all unfolds.