Rockets Erase 25-Point Deficit, Extend Win Streak to Seven with OT Victory Over 76ers
HOUSTON — Jalen Green and Jabari Smith Jr. each scored 30 points, leading the Houston Rockets to a thrilling 144-137 overtime victory against the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday night. The win marks Houston’s seventh straight, their longest streak of the season.
Rockets Rally From 25-Point Deficit
Houston trailed by as many as 25 points and never held a lead in regulation before mounting an impressive comeback. The Rockets opened overtime with a 9-3 run, taking control for the first time in the game.
Philadelphia’s Quentin Grimes, who had a career night, hit a clutch 3-pointer to trim Houston’s lead to 140-137 with under 2½ minutes left in OT. However, Alperen Sengun responded by sinking two free throws just over a minute later, followed by Aaron Holiday adding two more with 12.1 seconds remaining, sealing the win.
Late-Game Heroics Send Game to Overtime
The 76ers held an eight-point lead with under a minute left in regulation, but Houston stormed back with a 10-2 run to tie the game at 131.
With 3.1 seconds left, Smith Jr. split a pair of free throws, and Sengun secured the offensive rebound, putting it back up to tie the game. Philadelphia had a chance to win at the buzzer, but Jalen Hood-Schifino’s jumper missed, sending the game into overtime.
Standout Performances
- Quentin Grimes led Philadelphia with a career-high 46 points and 13 rebounds, sinking a personal-best eight 3-pointers. His performance helped the 76ers tie a franchise record with 24 made threes.
- Alperen Sengun played a key role in the comeback, securing critical rebounds and making clutch free throws down the stretch.
- Houston finished with a season-high 22 made 3-pointers, contributing to the game’s combined total of 46 threes between both teams.
Key Takeaways
- 76ers: Despite missing key players due to injuries, Philadelphia’s young roster continues to compete hard. Grimes has been on fire, scoring 40+ points twice this month and 30+ points in four games.
- Rockets: Houston must find more consistency after falling into a massive early deficit. While their resilience paid off this time, they can’t afford slow starts against stronger opponents.
What’s Next?
- Houston Rockets: Travel to face the Orlando Magic on Wednesday.
- Philadelphia 76ers: Visit the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday.