The Rockets led by 10 points in Friday’s second half, but they weren’t able to hold that lead in a deflating 126-122 overtime loss (box score) to the Spurs. Houston fell to 0-2 with the loss, while San Antonio improved to 1-1 on the young 2023-24 regular season.
The Rockets made just 10-of-20 free throws (50.0%), including a pair of costly misses by Jabari Smith Jr. in the final minute of regulation, when Houston was clinging to a narrow lead. By contrast, the Spurs made 21-of-28 from the free-throw line (75.0%).
Rookie big man Victor Wembanyama led the Spurs with 21 points, 12 rebounds, and 3 blocks, though Houston limited him to 7-of-19 shooting (36.8%). Rockets in double figures included:
- Alperen Sengun: 25 points, 14 rebounds, 7 assists; 11-of-18 shooting (61.1%), 1-of-3 on 3-pointers (33.3%), 2-of-6 on free throws (33.3%)
- Fred VanVleet: 24 points, 12 assists, 8 rebounds; 10-of-20 shooting (50.0%), 2-of-10 on 3-pointers (20.0%)
- Jalen Green: 22 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists; 10-of-20 shooting (50.0%), 2-of-6 on 3-pointers (33.3%)
- Dillon Brooks: 17 points, 2 assists, 2 rebounds; 7-of-13 shooting (53.8%), 1-of-2 on 3-pointers (50.0%)
- Jabari Smith Jr.: 13 points, 9 rebounds; 5-of-16 shooting (31.3%), 2-of-8 on 3-pointers (25.0%), 1-of-4 on free throws (25.0%)
Here are highlights and interviews from Friday, along with reaction by media members and fans. Next up for Houston is Sunday’s home opener versus Golden State, with tipoff at 6:00 p.m. Central.