DALLAS, TEXAS — The Houston Rockets emerged victorious over the Dallas Mavericks, 108-102, in a hard-fought Texas showdown on Thursday night. Jalen Green led Houston with 23 points and 12 rebounds, marking his first double-double of the season, while Tari Eason contributed a season-high 15 points off the bench. Houston’s aggressive approach on the glass proved decisive, as they pulled down 18 offensive rebounds and outscored Dallas 20-8 on second-chance points.
Dallas was powered by Luka Dončić, who scored 29 points, and Kyrie Irving, who added 28 points, including 5-of-6 from three-point range. It was the first game this season where both Mavericks stars scored at least 25 points, though their effort wasn’t enough to overcome the Rockets’ physicality on the boards. Foul trouble limited Dallas’ frontcourt, with Daniel Gafford and rookie Dereck Lively combining for only six rebounds, allowing Houston to win the rebounding battle 50-37.
Key Stat
Dallas dug itself an early hole, shooting just 2-for-12 on three-pointers in the first half.
Up Next
The Rockets host the Warriors on Saturday, while the Mavericks face the Magic at home on Sunday.
