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Jabari Smith Jr. set the tone for the Houston Rockets in Game 5 with 22 points and a defining statement of mentality, as Houston beat the Los Angeles Lakers 99-93 to extend the series.
“Feels good. Felt good to come out here with that sense of urgency. Just doing whatever it takes to win,” Smith said after the road victory at Crypto.com Arena.
The Rockets forward emphasized collective execution as Houston rallied to win a second straight game while facing elimination pressure earlier in the series.
“We rallied together, stayed together, stayed with it throughout the game and came out with a win,” he said.
Smith’s approach to the game was rooted in urgency from the opening tip, especially with the season on the line in a hostile environment.
“If you can’t get yourself motivated for a game where if you lose the season is over, then this sport, this league probably isn’t for you,” Smith said.
He detailed the mental preparation behind his performance, highlighting focus and constant engagement throughout the day.
“The focus is just like the night before the game, you can’t sleep. You’re just thinking about the game and what to do in that moment,” he said. “What to do for the game plan, what to do to come out with a win.”
Smith stressed consistency over emotional swings, especially during momentum changes in a playoff setting.
“No dead moments, no dull moments. If we’re down nine, up nine, just keep the same thing throughout the game,” he said. “We knew if we fight for 48 minutes, we’ll come out with a win.”
The Rockets forward also pointed to communication and energy as key factors in maintaining control during pressure stretches.
“I think I got to keep that for the rest of my career,” Smith said. “That’s why I was so vocal and just bouncing around.”
Houston’s win was defined by late-game composure, including a sequence where Reed Sheppard and Amen Thompson controlled possessions against full-court pressure from the Lakers.
Smith referenced the importance of learning from Game 3 mistakes and applying those lessons immediately.
“We got to know how to close games. We got to know how to stay poised in those pressure moments,” he said. “I feel like we grew up. We’re growing up together.”
The Rockets forward also addressed the team’s response to adversity, including turnovers and late-game execution errors earlier in the series.
“Just the team in general. Being in the same kind of situation today… where a week ago we folded and lost the game. I think that’s a step in the right direction,” Smith said.
Smith also highlighted the bond within Houston’s young core, particularly with Tari Eason, as both players delivered strong performances in the win.
“It’s what we dreamed about when we got drafted here,” he said. “Playing in big games that matter for this franchise.”
He continued, emphasizing the shared experience and chemistry built over time.
“You grow a brotherhood with him. That’s my brother,” Smith said. “We’re just happy to be playing together on the same court and just leaving it all out there.”
Defensively, Smith pointed to Houston’s improved discipline in recent games, especially in executing scouting details.
“I think it’s just the mental side of where to be, who to close out on, tendencies, and following the game plan,” he said.
The Rockets now return home for Game 6 with momentum after back-to-back wins, still facing the challenge of overcoming a 3-2 series deficit.
