The Rockets pulled off a stunning victory against the Pacers, proving that even without their star power, they can still bring home the win! But how did they manage it? Let's dive in.
In a nail-biting showdown on February 2, 2026, the Houston Rockets, despite being shorthanded, managed to clinch a 118-114 victory over the Indiana Pacers. This impressive feat was largely thanks to the stellar performance of Alperen Sengun, who tied his season-high with an incredible 39 points. Adding to the offensive firepower was Jabari Smith Jr., who contributed 19 points. This win was particularly significant as the Rockets were playing without their All-Star forward, Kevin Durant.
But here's where it gets tough for the Rockets... Durant was sidelined due to a sprained left ankle, an injury he sustained after stepping on a fan's foot. This, coupled with the ongoing absence of center Steven Adams โ who is expected to miss the remainder of the season after ankle surgery โ meant that Sengun had to shoulder a massive load. And boy, did he deliver!
Sengun's offensive output was remarkable. He shot 13 of 25 from the field and was a force at the free-throw line, sinking 13 of 18 attempts, including a crucial 8 of 12 in the pivotal fourth quarter. This win marked the Rockets' third consecutive victory and their fifth win in their last six games, showcasing a strong surge in their performance, especially on the road where they've now won three in a row.
On the Pacers' side, Pascal Siakam put up a valiant effort with 27 points, and Bennedict Mathurin added 25 points. The Pacers, who were on a bit of a hot streak themselves with a chance to extend their winning streak to a season-best three games, fought back valiantly. They managed to overcome a 12-point deficit in the third quarter to even take the lead at one point. And this is the part most people miss... the momentum swing was palpable.
Initially, the Pacers, feeling the benefit of Houston's depleted roster, seemed to be in control for much of the first half. However, the Rockets staged a remarkable comeback with a 17-4 run late in the second quarter. The tension was high, especially when a potential buzzer-beating 3-pointer from Siakam was controversially waved off after a replay review, leaving Indiana trailing 63-56 at halftime.
The Rockets continued to build on their momentum in the early stages of the second half, extending their lead to 75-63 with a 12-5 run. But the Pacers weren't about to give up. They responded with a nine-point streak, and a clever pass from Jarace Walker to Siakam on a fast break put Indiana back in front, 81-79, with just 2:27 left in the third quarter. The game remained a tight, one or two-possession affair until Sengun's clutch free throws ignited a decisive 12-2 run for Houston, ultimately sealing the 109-101 lead with 4:59 remaining.
Looking ahead, the Rockets will be heading home to face Boston on Wednesday night. Meanwhile, the Pacers will be hosting Utah in Indianapolis on Tuesday night.
What do you think? Was Sengun's performance the sole reason for the Rockets' win, or did the Pacers falter under pressure? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
