Rockets Hold Off Hawks 120-110 in Monday Night Thriller

Unbeaten Streak Continues in Houston

The Houston Rockets extended their perfect start to the season, defeating the visiting Atlanta Hawks 120-110 on Monday at the Toyota Center. The win improved Houston’s record to 4-0, while the Hawks fell to .500 at 2-2. Alperen Sengun anchored the victory with a team-high 29 points and dished out nine assists, leading a balanced offensive attack that withstood Atlanta’s early surges.

Quarter-by-Quarter Breakdown

The game began as a back-and-forth affair, with neither team able to establish a significant lead. The first quarter ended tied at 35-32 in favor of the Hawks after a tight contest featuring multiple lead changes. The second quarter mirrored the opening frame’s intensity, with both teams trading baskets until halftime.

The Rockets edged ahead slightly by one point as the teams headed to the locker rooms, with the score standing at 64-63.

The third quarter saw Atlanta take control, outscoring Houston 25-19 to build a lead that would prove difficult to overcome. Jalen Johnson contributed significantly for the visitors, finishing with 21 points and nine rebounds.

However, the Rockets’ defense tightened in the final period, holding Atlanta to just 25 points in the fourth quarter while their own offense exploded for 29 points to secure the ten-point margin.

Key Performances and Records

Sengun was the catalyst for Houston’s offensive efficiency, combining his scoring with playmaking duties. Jabari Smith Jr. controlled the glass for the Rockets, grabbing 12 rebounds to complement his scoring efforts. For Atlanta, Jock Landale facilitated the offense with four assists, adding to Johnson’s all-around performance.

The game was played before a crowd of 18,055 at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas. With this result, the Rockets maintain their undefeated status early in the campaign, while the Hawks look to bounce back from their second loss of the young season.

Sources

ESPN