Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka lauded his team’s composure in Friday’s 110-105 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves at the Toyota Center. “We played through some things, some physicality, some calls, and stayed the course. More than anything, I like the second half,” Udoka said.
Udoka highlighted Houston’s defensive turnaround after allowing 34 points in the first quarter. “After giving up 34, we defended at a pretty high level, and it felt good to guard again and get on the floor. That energy was back for the first time in a while,” he explained.
The coach praised the offense’s improved pace and ball movement, especially for Kevin Durant. “We set and held some screens to get him better looks. He got six-for-eight on quality shots. Our pace in general was better in the half-court,” Udoka said.
Alperen Sengun’s performance was another key factor. “Big game by him. He took on the challenge of Randle, guarded pick-and-rolls, and fought Gobert on the glass. He was hustling, getting steals and making plays on the floor,” Udoka said.
Udoka also noted Reed Sheppard’s impact in the first half. “He gave us a nice spark, hitting three threes in a row. We were a little stagnant in the first quarter, and he helped turn things around,” he said.
Turnover management was a point of emphasis for Udoka. “This team only turned the ball over 12 times tonight. Ideally, we’d like to reduce turnovers from Kevin, Alperen, and Amen, but the other guys have to make quick decisions and stay aggressive,” he explained.
Durant led Houston with 39 points, including six three-pointers, and added seven assists, while Sengun posted 25 points and 14 rebounds. Jabari Smith Jr. contributed nine points, and Amen Thompson added 14. Houston held a slight edge in the fourth quarter and sealed the win with free throws in the final minute.
Minnesota’s Julius Randle scored a season-high 39 points, and Naz Reid added 25 off the bench, but critical turnovers and Sengun fouling out hindered their comeback. The Timberwolves, missing Anthony Edwards for a second straight game, trailed by six before Durant’s late-game free throws secured the victory.
The Rockets, now 24-15, host the Pelicans on Sunday, while Minnesota visits the Spurs on Saturday. Udoka emphasized the importance of sustaining defensive intensity and offensive efficiency moving forward. “When we take care of the ball and win the possession battle, we’re in good shape,” he said.
