DeMar DeRozan’s 33-point performance powered the Sacramento Kings to a 132-127 victory over the Houston Rockets on Thursday night. The win brought Sacramento to 21-20 and marked their eighth triumph in nine games.

Malik Monk contributed 26 points and nine assists, sealing the game with four clutch free throws in the closing seconds. Domantas Sabonis added a double-double with 20 points, 14 rebounds, and seven assists, while De’Aaron Fox chipped in with 19 points.

The Rockets, who had been on a seven-game road winning streak, were led by Jalen Green’s 28 points. Alperen Sengun posted a strong performance with 21 points and 10 rebounds, while Amen Thompson scored 20 points and grabbed 10 boards.

The game remained competitive until the final quarter, with the teams trading leads throughout. A decisive stretch came late in the fourth when the Kings went on a 7-0 run, highlighted by DeRozan’s mid-range jumper and Monk’s three-pointer.

Sacramento’s bench made key contributions, with Trey Lyles and Keon Ellis combining for 11 points. The Kings’ overall shooting efficiency, 50% from the field and 42.4% from three, helped them overcome Houston’s relentless offense.

Houston struggled with turnovers, committing 14 as Sacramento capitalized with transition opportunities. The Rockets also shot 70.8% from the free-throw line, leaving points on the board in a tightly contested game.

Despite the loss, Houston displayed resilience with six players scoring in double figures. Tari Eason provided energy off the bench, scoring 16 points on 6-of-10 shooting.

Sacramento’s defense proved pivotal, holding Houston to 36.4% shooting from beyond the arc. Sabonis controlled the paint, anchoring the defense and leading the Kings to a narrow but crucial victory.