The Houston Rockets overcame a 15-point deficit to beat the NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder 112-106 on Saturday, powered by Alperen Sengun's triple-double. Kevin Durant contributed 20 points after a slow start, helping snap a two-game losing streak. The Thunder, missing star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, couldn't hold their early lead despite the league's best record at 40-13.
The Houston Rockets trailed by as many as 15 points in the second quarter against a Thunder team without reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who is sidelined with an abdominal injury until after the All-Star break. However, Houston chipped away to take the lead in the third period and held on for the 112-106 victory, ending a two-game skid.
Turkish center Alperen Sengun delivered a triple-double with 17 points, 12 rebounds, 11 assists, three steals, and three blocks. Jabari Smith Jr. added a double-double of 22 points and 10 rebounds, while Tari Eason led the scoring with 26 points. All five Rockets starters finished with at least 16 points.
Kevin Durant, who began his career with the Thunder and faced boos from fans over his departure more than nine years ago, struggled early with just three shot attempts in the first half. He finished with 20 points on 6-of-10 shooting. "We started making shots," Durant said. "I think we got good looks that first half, we just weren't knocking them down. Second half, we knocked them down."
"We knew they would slow down a bit," Durant added. "They were playing with a lot of energy at home the first half. They were missing three guys, other guys get an opportunity (and) they took advantage in the first half. The second half, I think we came out with the same energy."
For the Thunder, Cason Wallace scored 23 points and Isaiah Joe added 21 from the bench. Chet Holmgren, returning from a one-game absence, had 17 points and 14 rebounds, but Oklahoma City couldn't sustain their momentum.
