Rockets Survive First Half Scare to Beat Hawks 120-110

A Tight Contest in Houston

The Houston Rockets improved to an unblemished 4-0 record on Monday night, defeating the visiting Atlanta Hawks 120-110 at the Toyota Center. While the final margin suggested a comfortable victory, the game remained competitive through the first half, with Houston needing to find its offensive rhythm in the second half to secure the win.

First Half Back and Forth

The opening period set a frantic tone. The Hawks jumped out to an early lead, but Houston responded with efficient scoring from Alperen Sengun and Amen Thompson. The Rockets took a 35-32 lead into the break after trading baskets with Atlanta throughout the quarter.

The second period saw the teams trade blows, with neither side able to build significant separation. Key contributions came from Reed Sheppard and Jock Landale, who kept the score tight as the halves concluded. At the end of regulation, the Rockets held a narrow advantage, having outscored Atlanta 28-25 in the third quarter and 37-35 in the fourth to pull away.

Sengun Leads the Way

Alperen Sengun was the standout performer for Houston, leading all scorers with 29 points. He also served as the primary playmaker, dishing out nine assists to facilitate the offense. His impact was felt throughout the game, from alley-oop dunks to clutch free throws in the final minutes.

Jabari Smith Jr. controlled the glass for the Rockets, grabbing 12 rebounds to help secure possession and limit Atlanta’s second-chance opportunities. The Rockets’ bench also provided crucial support, with Luguentz Dort and Tari Eason contributing key scores in the later stages of the game to extend the lead when it mattered most.

Hawks Fight Until the End

Jalen Johnson was the top performer for Atlanta, finishing with 21 points and nine rebounds. He attempted to keep the Hawks within striking distance with consistent scoring drives and free throws. Jock Landale contributed off the bench for Atlanta, recording four assists as he looked to spark the offense in the second half.

Despite their efforts, the Hawks could not maintain the pace set in the first quarter. Their defense struggled to contain Houston’s perimeter shooting in the final two periods, allowing the Rockets to build a cushion they would not relinquish. The loss drops Atlanta to .500 at 2-2, while Houston remains perfect through its first four games of the season.

Sources

ESPN