In a spectacular performance, Jalen Green erupted for a season-high 34 points, with 26 coming in the second half, propelling the Houston Rockets (7-6) to a decisive 111-91 win over the Memphis Grizzlies (3-11) on Wednesday night.
This victory marks the end of a three-game skid for the Rockets and breaks a five-game losing streak in the series against Memphis.
Green’s standout second-half display was crucial for the Rockets, who entered the fourth quarter with a six-point lead.
A 10-2 run, featuring seven points from Green, extended their advantage to 84-70 with around 10 minutes remaining.
Fred VanVleet, contributing to the Rockets’ strong fourth-quarter start with a crucial 3-pointer, combined with Green’s rapid seven-point burst in just over a minute to maintain control of the game.
A three-point play from Alperen Sengun and a 3-pointer from VanVleet further solidified the Rockets’ lead at 90-72 with nine minutes left.
Desmond Bane and Jaren Jackson Jr. scored 23 points each for the Grizzlies, who faced their third loss in four games.
Former Grizzlies player Dillon Brooks, now with the Rockets, had a solid performance with 13 points in his first game against his former team after signing with Houston in the offseason.
Rockets’ rookie Jabari Smith Jr. contributed 18 points with nine rebounds, showcasing the team’s depth.
The Rockets improved to an impressive 7-1 record at home this season, underlining their strength in their home court.
