Rockets defeat Spurs 93-82, hand them a franchise-record 17th consecutive loss

The number one overall pick was already looking towards the future, confident that brighter days lie ahead for his team. Despite the challenges they face, he remains committed to pushing forward and working hard. He acknowledges that winning might not come easily, but he remains focused on the long-term goal.

Meanwhile, Tari Eason had an impressive performance off the bench, contributing 18 points and 14 rebounds to help the Houston Rockets secure a 93-82 victory against the winless San Antonio Spurs. The Rockets showcased their dominance on both ends of the court, relying heavily on their defensive prowess.

Despite a strong showing from Wembanyama, who delivered 15 points, 18 rebounds, and five blocks, the Spurs were unable to break their losing streak. With this win, the Rockets extended their home winning streak to 10 games and secured their third consecutive victory overall.

The Rockets secured their 10th consecutive victory at home and extended their winning streak to three games overall.

According to Houston coach Ime Udoka, the team didn't perform at their best offensively, but they heavily relied on their defense to secure the win.

San Antonio made a tip-in through Wembanyama, narrowing the gap to four points with approximately four minutes remaining. However, Houston's Fred VanVleet quickly responded with a 3-pointer, and Sengun blocked a shot on the other end, allowing the Rockets to regain possession.

Eason contributed to Houston's lead by executing a dunk, bringing the score to 86-77 with three minutes left on the clock. Despite a timeout called by the Spurs, Houston continued to dominate with a 5-2 run, including another 3-pointer by VanVleet, extending their lead to 91-79 with less than a minute remaining.

Coach Udoka praised Eason's exceptional performance, highlighting his impact on the game through various means such as securing loose balls and making crucial shots. Eason provided the team with the much-needed spark.

VanVleet contributed 16 points to the Rockets' victory, while Sengun added 15.

San Antonio struggled from beyond the arc, shooting a mere 12% (5 of 41) from 3-point distance. Keldon Johnson failed to convert any of his nine long-range attempts, and Devin Vassell only managed to make one out of nine.

"I am feeling a sense of frustration - it's challenging to determine the best course of action when you're missing so many shots," expressed Spurs coach Gregg Popovich. "It creates a significant level of difficulty. However, the team is progressing in various aspects, and I sincerely hope they can have some luck in making shots."

Johnson acknowledged that the losing streak has been tough but emphasized his commitment to maintaining a positive mindset. "As a competitor, my desire is to win," he stated. "I will not compromise my identity because of our current losing record."

With approximately nine minutes remaining, the Rockets held an eight-point advantage following a basket by Eason. However, San Antonio responded with a 7-3 run, led by Vassell's four points, reducing the deficit to 77-73 with around 6½ minutes left.

Although the Spurs managed to tie the game early in the third quarter with a 6-0 run, Houston quickly regained control with consecutive 3-pointers from Sengun and Jabari Smith Jr., initiating an 8-0 surge that granted the Rockets a 61-53 lead.

Towards the end of the third quarter, Aaron Holiday extended Houston's lead to 10 points with a 3-pointer. However, the Spurs closed the quarter with three points, courtesy of a shot from Wembanyama, narrowing the gap to 69-62 entering the fourth.

Rookie Amen Thompson, the fourth overall pick in the draft, made his return after missing the previous 13 games due to a sprained right ankle. He contributed two points and five rebounds.

UP NEXT

The Spurs will host the Lakers in the first of consecutive home games on Wednesday.

The Rockets will host Memphis on Wednesday.