Warriors' comeback vs. Rockets falls short in Steph Curry's return, 117-116

While the Houston Rockets spoiled Steph Curry's highly-anticipated return to the court from injury on Sunday night, the All-Star point guard still put on a show for the fans in attendance at San Francisco's Chase Center. With the Rockets leading by double figures, Curry fueled a late comeback attempt for the Warriors in his first game since January 30. After missing the last 27 games due to a lingering knee injury, Curry tallied 19 of his team-high 29 points in the second half to give the Warriors a chance at a comeback victory.

However, with a chance to win the game on the final possession, Curry's long-distance jumper clanked off the rim, sealing Sunday's contest in favor of the Rockets, 117-116. Curry finished with 29 points on 11-of-21 shooting from the field with five made 3-pointers to go along with four assists and two rebounds in only 26 minutes off the bench. The Warriors fell down by 15 points with five minutes remaining in the third quarter.

However, behind a furious run from Curry and Gary Payton II, the Warriors took the lead on a Payton II bucket at the rim on a smooth assist from Draymond Green with just 19 seconds remaining on the clock. Payton's shot was initially blocked by Amen Thompson before the officials quickly called goaltending. Yet, Alperen Sengun played spoiler when he finished a shot in the lane after Kevin Durant found him with 11 seconds on the clock.

While the Warriors had the final shot, Curry's 3-point attempt fell short, ending the game 117-116. Durant finished with 31 points on 10-of-17 shooting from the field with three made 3-pointers, eight boards, eight assists and three blocks in 37 minutes against his former team. Sunday's loss marks Golden State's fourth straight defeat.