Fred VanVleet delivered a season-high 38 points, leading the Houston Rockets to a narrow 119-116 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder on Sunday night. The win marked Houston’s third consecutive triumph and extended their streak to five wins in the last six games.
Dillon Brooks played a pivotal role, hitting a go-ahead jumper with 33.1 seconds remaining to break a 113-113 tie. His clutch shot came just before the shot clock expired, giving the Rockets a two-point lead.
Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who finished with 32 points, missed a crucial shot on the ensuing possession. Brooks secured the rebound, and VanVleet’s free throws stretched Houston’s lead to 117-113 with 4.6 seconds left.
The Thunder’s Jalen Williams nailed a three-pointer with 2.4 seconds remaining to bring Oklahoma City within one point. However, VanVleet sealed the game by sinking two more free throws, ensuring the Rockets’ victory.
The matchup was a showcase of standout performances from both sides. VanVleet’s offensive explosion was complemented by Alperen Sengun’s near triple-double with 20 points, 14 rebounds, and nine assists. Jabari Smith Jr. added 15 points and 14 rebounds, while Brooks contributed 16 points.
For the Thunder, Gilgeous-Alexander recorded his fourth consecutive 30-point game. Isaiah Hartenstein impressed as well, posting 19 points and 13 rebounds in his fifth game since returning from a fractured hand.
Both teams were aggressive, with a combined 64 free throws. Houston capitalized on their opportunities, going 30-for-39 from the line, while Oklahoma City shot 19-for-25.
The Rockets improved their record to 15-6, avenging a 126-107 loss to the Thunder earlier in the season. The Thunder sit at 15-5 but saw their four-game winning streak snapped in the closely contested battle.
Brooks’ game-winning moment was set up by a jump ball he won against Gilgeous-Alexander, demonstrating his impact on both ends of the court. Houston’s defensive effort also limited Oklahoma City to 33.3% shooting from beyond the arc.
