The Houston Rockets ended the Atlanta Hawks’ 11-game winning streak with a 117-95 victory on Friday night at Toyota Center, using a dominant second half to take control.
Houston improved after a recent dip in form, while Atlanta’s longest winning run in over a decade came to a halt despite entering the game in strong play-in position.
Kevin Durant led the Rockets with 25 points, shooting 9-of-15 from the field and adding six assists in an efficient offensive performance.
Jabari Smith Jr. followed with 23 points and nine rebounds, providing scoring balance and floor spacing throughout the game.
Alperen Sengun contributed across all phases with 15 points, 10 assists and nine rebounds, orchestrating the offense from the high post and facilitating ball movement.
The Rockets shot 51% from the field and 47% from three-point range, converting 14-of-30 attempts from beyond the arc.
Atlanta struggled to match that efficiency, shooting 42% overall and just 9-of-35 from deep, limiting its ability to keep pace in half-court sets.
Nickeil Alexander-Walker led the Hawks with 21 points, while CJ McCollum added 17 and Zaccharie Risacher scored 16 off the bench.
Houston controlled the glass with a 51-37 rebounding advantage, generating second-chance opportunities and limiting Atlanta’s transition chances.
The game remained competitive in the first half, with the Rockets holding a 62-54 lead at the break.
Houston created separation in the third quarter, outscoring Atlanta 39-22 by increasing defensive pressure and converting in transition.
Durant and Smith combined for consistent scoring during that stretch, while Sengun’s passing created open perimeter looks.
Amen Thompson added 14 points and seven rebounds, and rookie guard Reed Sheppard contributed 14 points with four three-pointers, expanding the offensive spacing.
Atlanta’s offense stalled under pressure, committing 16 turnovers and struggling to generate clean perimeter looks against Houston’s rotations.
Onyeka Okongwu recorded three assists, including the 600th of his career, while adding eight rebounds and interior defense.
Houston’s defensive activity resulted in 11 steals and consistent disruption of passing lanes, which translated into transition scoring opportunities.
The Rockets maintained control in the fourth quarter, holding Atlanta under 25 points for the second straight period to close out the game.
Atlanta returns home to face Golden State next, while Houston will host Miami as it looks to build momentum from this performance.
