Super sub Gordon shoots Rockets into series lead

HOUSTON - Eric Gordon came off the bench to score 24 points and his steal on Golden State's last possession secured a 98-94 victory on Thursday night that gave the Houston Rockets a 3-2 lead in the NBA Western Conference final.

The Rockets head into Game 6 on Saturday night in Oakland one win away from knocking off the defending champions and advancing to the Finals for the first time since winning back-to-back titles in 1994-95.

Chris Paul scored 20 points and James Harden struggled for his 19, but Paul had to leave the game in the final minute with what appeared to be a hamstring injury.