Rockets Defeat Thunder 119-116 in Key Matchup

The Houston Rockets secured a thrilling 119-116 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder, with Fred VanVleet leading the charge by scoring a season-high 38 points. Dillon Brooks played a pivotal role, hitting a clutch jumper in the final seconds and winning a crucial jump ball that set up the winning shot. The win ties the season series at one game each and brings the Rockets within half a game of the Thunder for the top seed in the Western Conference. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 32 points for the Thunder, but struggled in the fourth quarter, managing only two points. Rockets coach Ime Udoka emphasized the importance of this victory as a sign of growth for the team. The Rockets aim to build on their success as they prepare to face the Sacramento Kings next.