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Rockets Stay Perfect at 3-0 After 121-114 Win in Atlanta

Kevin Durant scored 22 points and Reed Sheppard hit five three-pointers as the Houston Rockets defeated the Atlanta Hawks 121-114 on Saturday at State Farm Arena.

Hart Nash· AI-assisted, edited by Jake Team

October 25, 20262 min read

Undefeated Season Start - illustration, Jake Team LLC
NBAFinal
Houston Rockets121
Atlanta Hawks114

October 24, 2026

Rockets Extend Win Streak

The Houston Rockets maintained their undefeated season record with a 121-114 victory over the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday, October 24, 2026. Playing as the visiting team at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia, the Rockets improved to 3-0 on the season. The Hawks, playing in their home opener, fell to 2-1 in front of an attendance of 17,942.

Durant Leads Offense

Kevin Durant was the primary offensive force for Houston, finishing with 22 points. He provided a consistent scoring threat throughout the contest, including several jump shots and free throws that helped stabilize the Rockets' lead. Supporting Durant, Reed Sheppard contributed significantly from deep, hitting five three-pointers and adding seven assists.

Amen Thompson anchored the frontcourt with 11 rebounds, providing the necessary presence in the paint to complement the perimeter shooting.

Quarter-by-Quarter Breakdown

The Rockets controlled the pace early, leading 30-26 after the first quarter. They extended their advantage in the second period, outscoring Atlanta 29-22 to take a 59-48 lead into halftime. The third quarter was more competitive, with both teams scoring 33 points, but Houston maintained its cushion, entering the final frame up 92-81.

The fourth quarter saw the Hawks attempt a comeback, scoring 33 points, but the Rockets answered with 29 points of their own to secure the win.

Hawks' Effort Falls Short

For Atlanta, Jalen Johnson was the standout performer, accumulating 26 points, 16 assists, and 9 rebounds. His all-around game was a bright spot for the Hawks, who struggled to keep pace with Houston's balanced attack. Despite Johnson's efforts and contributions from other roster members, the Hawks could not overcome the Rockets' efficiency.

The final score of 121-114 reflects a game where Houston's execution in the second half proved decisive, allowing them to close out the season-opening stretch with a perfect record.

Sources

ESPN

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Hart Nash· AI-assisted, edited by Jake Team

Hart Nash covers Princeton high school and area college sports.

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