Alperen Sengun delivered a stellar performance with 36 points, 13 rebounds, and seven assists, leading the Houston Rockets to a commanding 134-102 win against the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday night.
Houston’s dominant second quarter set the tone for the game. The Rockets now share fifth place in the Western Conference with Minnesota, trailing Denver by 1 1/2 games.
Rockets’ Decisive Second Quarter
Houston used a 23-3 run to open the second quarter. This put the game out of reach for the Pelicans. Sengun scored 14 points in the quarter, including three 3-pointers, as the Rockets took a 68-47 lead into halftime.
Standout Performances
Sengun made 5 of 7 from 3-point range, adding three steals and three blocks to his impressive stat line. Kevin Durant and Jabari Smith Jr. each contributed 20 points for Houston, while Tari Eason added 15.
For the Pelicans, Dejounte Murray scored 19 points. Zion Williamson and Saddiq Bey each scored 18, and Derik Queen had 13. Rookie Jeremiah Fears added 12 points and five assists.
The Rockets outrebounded the Pelicans 59-36 and committed just six turnovers.
Şengün’s Scoring Streak
- Sengun has scored at least 30 points in three of his last four games.
- He scored 33 points in a 132-124 loss at Chicago on Monday.
- He also scored 30 in an overtime loss to Minnesota on Wednesday.
The Pelicans have now lost back-to-back games and 11 of their last 12.
The Pelicans shot 52% in the first quarter, including five made 3-pointers.
Looking Ahead
The Pelicans will visit Portland on Thursday. The Rockets are set to host New York on Tuesday.