The Houston Rockets defeated the Dallas Mavericks 110-102 on Monday night, powered by Amen Thompson's season-high 27 points and Alperen Sengun's 26 points with 11 rebounds. This win marked Houston's fourth straight after a slow start to the season.
With about 90 seconds remaining, Sengun pushed the Rockets ahead 105-102 after driving through the lane and spinning past a defender. Following a missed 3-pointer by Washington, Josh Okogie added two free throws to extend the lead to 107-102 with one minute left.
Despite D’Angelo Russell missing a 3-pointer, Thompson’s free throw made it 108-102 with 27 seconds on the clock. He then blocked a three-point attempt by No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg, while Tari Eason secured the victory with a final dunk.
The Mavericks played their second game without Anthony Davis, sidelined due to a strained calf, and now hold a 2-5 record.
Kevin Durant scored 21 points, with six rebounds and five assists, although he shot 6 of 18 from the floor. He made his first 3-pointer after missing six attempts, followed by another 3-pointer that helped close the gap to 99-94 with five minutes remaining.
“Sengun drove into the lane and spun around a defender before sinking a shot to make it 105-102 with about 90 seconds left.”
“Josh Okogie scored his first points of the game with two free throws that pushed the lead to 107-102 with a minute to go.”
Summary: Amen Thompson’s career-high scoring and clutch plays by Alperen Sengun drove the Houston Rockets to a crucial fourth straight win over the Mavericks.