Led by 22 points on strong efficiency from Jabari Smith Jr., the Rockets continued their 2023-24 NBA preseason in Birmingham, Alabama, with Thursday’s 120-87 blowout (box score) of the New Orleans Pelicans. Houston is 2-0 in exhibition play.
It was a strong defensive effort by Ime Udoka’s new-look Rockets versus a New Orleans team (0-2) featuring marquee starters Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram and C.J. McCollum.
In 24 minutes, Smith finished with a game-high 22 points on 9-of-13 shooting (69.2%), including 4-of-5 on 3-pointers (80.0%). Smith also grabbed 9 rebounds and dished 2 assists.
Other Houston players to score in double-figures included:
- Amen Thompson: 12 points, 4 assists in 21 minutes; 4-of-7 shooting (57.1%), 1-of-3 on 3-pointers (33.3%), 3-of-4 on free throws (75%)
- Jalen Green: 12 points, 2 assists in 25 minutes; 4-of-7 shooting (57.1%), 0-of-2 on 3-pointers, 4-of-4 on free throws
- Alperen Sengun: 12 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 steals in 22 minutes; 5-of-12 shooting (41.7%), 0-of-4 on 3-pointers, 2-of-2 on free throws
McCollum led the Pelicans with 17 points in 23 minutes, making 6-of-13 shots (46.2%) and 4-of-8 on 3-pointers (50.0%).
Here are highlights and interviews from Thursday, along with reaction by media members and fans. Houston will continue its exhibition slate Monday in San Antonio with the first of two straight games versus top rookie Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs.