Thompson's Season-High 27 Points Propel Rockets to Fourth Straight Win
HOUSTON (AP) — Amen Thompson scored a season-high 27 points, while Alperen Sengun contributed 26 points and 11 rebounds, leading the Houston Rockets to a 110-102 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Monday night. This win marks Houston’s fourth consecutive victory after losing their first two games of the season.
Key Moments in the Fourth Quarter
The Rockets were ahead by just one point when Sengun made a spin move past a defender to score, putting Houston up 105-102 with about 90 seconds left. After Washington missed a three-pointer, Josh Okogie extended the lead to 107-102 with two free throws.
D’Angelo Russell missed a three-point attempt, allowing Thompson to sink one of two free throws, increasing the lead to 108-102 with 27 seconds remaining. Thompson then blocked a three-point shot by No. 1 draft pick Cooper Flagg, and Tari Eason sealed the game with a dunk.
Mavericks' Standout Performances
Washington led the Mavericks with season highs of 29 points and 12 rebounds, despite missing Anthony Davis, who is out with a strained calf. Max Christie contributed 17 points, and Flagg added 12 points and five rebounds, but Dallas fell to 2-5.
Durant’s Struggles and Highlights
Kevin Durant scored 21 points with six rebounds and five assists but struggled with his shooting, making just 6 of 18 attempts. The Rockets held a one-point lead when Durant nailed his first three-pointer of the night after missing six straight. He followed with another three to push the score to 99-94 with five minutes remaining, but Houston maintained control.
"Amen Thompson scored a season-high 27 points, Alperen Sengun added 26 points and 11 rebounds, and the Houston Rockets outlasted the Dallas Mavericks for a 110-102 victory."
The Rockets' resilience and key defensive plays secured their winning streak despite Dallas’ competitive efforts.
Summary: Amen Thompson’s standout scoring and critical defensive plays helped the Rockets claim their fourth straight win, overcoming a tough Mavericks team led by strong individual performances.