Rockets Triumph Over Celtics with Sharpshooting in Third Straight Win

The Houston Rockets overcame an initial slow start this season by securing their third consecutive victory, defeating the Boston Celtics 128-101 on Saturday, November 1 (Sunday, November 2, Manila time). Kevin Durant led the Rockets with a game-high 26 points, while Alperen Sengun flirted with a triple-double, contributing 16 points, 10 rebounds, and 9 assists.

Amen Thompson also played a vital role, recording 17 points, 9 rebounds, and 8 assists. Houston's remarkable shooting efficiency was on full display, as the team converted 54.5% of their field goals and an impressive 65.5% from beyond the arc, sinking 19 of 29 three-point attempts. Over their last three contests, the Rockets have scored 137, 139, and 128 points respectively.

The Celtics, whose three-game winning streak came to an end, struggled offensively. Baylor Scheierman was Boston's top scorer with 17 points, followed by Payton Pritchard with 14. Jaylen Brown added 12 points in 22 minutes. Derrick White, however, had an off night, shooting just 2 of 11 and totaling 5 points in 19 minutes. Boston shot 38.8% overall and managed 31.8% from three-point range (14 of 44).

Houston dominated on the boards, outrebounding Boston 53-36 and earning 35 free throw attempts, 28 more than the Celtics. The Rockets’ depth was evident with multiple players—Jabari Smith, Josh Okogie, Tari Eason, and Reed Sheppard—each contributing 12 points. Clint Capela also posted a double-double with 10 rebounds.

The Rockets set the tone early, leading 37-24 after the first quarter and expanding their advantage to 66-48 by halftime, aided by a three-pointer from Jabari Smith late in the second quarter. Durant powered Houston in the first half, scoring 20 points while the team converted 57.1% from the field, including 9 of 16 on three-pointers. They held a commanding 29-17 rebounding edge over Boston through two quarters.

Entering the final quarter, Houston led 97-72. The largest deficit for Boston came with 6:12 remaining when two free throws by Aaron Holiday extended the Rockets’ lead to 118-82. Fatigue may have played a factor, as Boston was playing their fifth game in seven nights.

The Rockets’ impressive display of sharpshooting and depth suggests a team building momentum following their early-season challenges.