Houston Rockets Extend Home Winning Streak with Victory over Oklahoma City Thunder
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HOUSTON — The Houston Rockets did not spend Wednesday night preparing for the In-Season Tournament Semifinals in Las Vegas. But inside the Toyota Center, the Rockets recorded a much-needed victory in a 110-101 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Houston's 18th game of the 2023-24 season was the result of its In-Season Tournament elimination after a 121-115 loss to the Dallas Mavericks on Nov. 28.
The Rockets were able to take control early due to the production of Jalen Green. He scored 11 of his 15 points during the first half. His play led to Houston holding a 55-50 lead at the half.
Green could have scored more within the first 24 minutes, but foul trouble led to an early exit right before the half. However, the Rockets' success did not rely upon one player. Alperen Şengün added to Houston's first-half performance by scoring 14 of his 21 points.
During the third quarter, Dillon Brooks caught fire. He scored 12 of his team-best 23 points during the period. Aaron Holiday finished with his best game of the season by adding 22 points on 8 of 12 shooting, 6 of 7 from behind the arc off the bench.
In their first meeting against Rookie of the Year favorite Chet Holmgren, the Rockets did a good job containing the former Gonzaga prospect. Holmgren struggled against the Rockets' defense. He finished with a subpar four points on 2 of 9 shooting.
Jabari Smith Jr., who recorded a career-high 18 rebounds, played a significant role in defending Holmgren. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with a game-high 33 points.
Rockets guard Jalen Green shoots against Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and forward Kenrich Williams
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Rockets extend home winning streak:
The Rockets are still winless on the road. But when it comes to their play inside the Toyota Center, the Rockets are at their best. By defeating the Thunder, the Rockets have extended their home winning streak to nine.
Up Next:
The Rockets will close their four-game regular-season series against the Denver Nuggets, Friday night, inside Ball Arena. The Rockets currently lead the series with a 2-1 record, which includes a 134-124 loss on Nov. 29. Tip-off between the Rockets and Nuggets is slated for 8:00 p.m. CDT.
