In their fourth and final game versus Denver in the 2023-24 campaign, the upstart Rockets secured the regular-season series in Friday’s 114-106 win (box score) over the Nuggets (14-9). Besides taking their third game in under a month from the defending NBA champions, Houston (10-9) also secured its first road victory.
Talented third-year center Alperen Sengun had 17 points (50.0% FG), 10 rebounds, and 7 assists for the Rockets, and his defense helped limit perennial All-Star and MVP candidate Nikola Jokic to 23 points, 16 rebounds, and 5 assists while shooting just 9-of-26 from the field (34.6%). Many of those statistics came in the fourth quarter, notably after Houston had already built a 25-point buffer.
Jalen Green led Houston with an efficient 25 points, shooting 8-of-17 overall (47.1%) and 8-of-10 on free throws (80.0%). That line included 10 third-quarter points as the Rockets built up their lead and several late free throws to put the game away. Backcourt mate Fred VanVleet added a game-high 26 points, making 4-of-10 from 3-point range (40.0%) and 9-of-12 on free throws (75.0%).
Veteran wing Dillon Brooks finished with 16 points while shooting 6-of-12 overall (50.0%) and 4-of-10 on 3-pointers (40.0%).
Here’s our look at highlights and postgame interviews after Friday’s game in Denver, along with reaction by media members and fans. Next up for the Rockets is Monday’s home game versus San Antonio (3-18), with tipoff set for 7:00 p.m. Central from Toyota Center.