1995 Western Conference Semifinals vs SuperSonics

Lore & Background

The Rockets became the fifth team in NBA history to overcome a 3–1 series deficit. With 8.2 seconds left in Game 7, Hakeem Olajuwon's fadeaway jumper tied the game at 92 to force overtime. Mario Elie then hit the game-winning 'Kiss of Death' three-pointer with 7.1 seconds left. The Rockets would also overcome a 3–1 deficit 20 years later against the Los Angeles Clippers.

Reader's Guide

The Rockets' key players in this series were Hakeem Olajuwon, Clyde Drexler, and Robert Horry. The decisive Game 7 was played at America West Arena in Phoenix. The Rockets went on to defeat the top-seeded San Antonio Spurs in the Western Conference Finals and then swept the Orlando Magic in the NBA Finals.

Did You Know?

• The Rockets were the first road team to win a Game 7 of any round in the NBA playoffs in 13 years by beating the Suns at America West Arena.
• The next day, the Pacers became the second team to accomplish this feat since 1982, beating the Knicks at Madison Square Garden.
• The Rockets' 47 wins were the fewest by an NBA champion since the Washington Bullets tallied 44 in 1978.