Rockets Clinch First Playoff Spot in Five Years with 50th Win

The Houston Rockets secured their spot in the 2025 NBA Playoffs with a decisive 143-105 victory over the Utah Jazz, marking their first playoff appearance since 2020. Jalen Green led the team with 22 points, while Dillon Brooks contributed 21 points, and several players had standout performances, including Jabari Smith Jr. and Alperen Sengun grabbing double-digit rebounds. Under head coach Ime Udoka, the Rockets have transformed from a struggling team to a 50-win contender, significantly improving their performance this season. The team has clinched a top six seed in the Western Conference and is currently three games ahead of the Nuggets and Lakers. Meanwhile, the Jazz continued their downward spiral, suffering their seventh consecutive loss. Houston's Fred VanVleet missed the game due to injury, highlighting some ongoing challenges for the team as they prepare for the playoffs.