Amen Thompson and Jalen Inexperienced led the cost on Wednesday because the Houston Rockets dominated the visiting San Antonio Spurs with a 118-106 victory.
Thompson, Houston’s 6-foot-6 guard-forward hybrid, showcased his versatility in Wednesday night time’s in-state victory. Enjoying half-hour within the Rockets’ snug win over San Antonio, Thompson delivered one of the crucial aggressive scoring performances of his younger profession, ending with 25 factors on a formidable 12-for-15 capturing.
In his post-game interview, Thompson referenced Hakeem Olajuwon, hinting on the legendary Rocket’s affect on his sport. “Shoutout a legend, Hakeem!” mentioned Amen Thompson.
He remained true to his versatile model, contributing eight rebounds, 5 assists, and two blocks per sport whereas posting a +26 plus-minus as a starter.
Amen Thompson has been a pressure on each ends of the court docket in 2025, averaging 16.8 factors, 9.6 rebounds, and 5.3 assists whereas contributing 3.3 mixed steals and blocks per sport. His defensive impression is plain, holding opponents to only 40.4% capturing—the bottom mark within the NBA this season.
The Houston Rockets making the most of Victor Wembanyama’s absence
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Amid his All-Star season, former No. 1 choose Victor Wembanyama has been formally dominated out for the remainder of the yr because of deep vein thrombosis. In the meantime, the Rockets secured their second consecutive win with out the elite shot-blocker on the ground.
Inexperienced contributed 21 factors and 7 rebounds, whereas Dillon Brooks caught fireplace from deep, flattening 5 three-pointers on his method to 19 factors. With the victory, Houston secured a 3-1 edge within the season sequence towards San Antonio.
The Rockets entered halftime with an 18-point benefit over the Spurs and stored their foot on the gasoline within the second half. Thompson set the tone within the third quarter, attacking the glass for second-chance factors and ending effectively across the rim. He additionally stretched the ground with a well timed three-pointer, protecting San Antonio’s protection on its heels.
Thompson’s enchancment from his rookie to sophomore season could seem gradual on paper, however the eye take a look at tells a distinct story—his path to stardom is unfolding shortly. His athleticism and pure really feel for the sport stand out each night time, and it is solely a matter of time earlier than the Rockets additional develop his offensive position.
As Houston continues to ascertain itself within the Western Convention, Thompson is on monitor for his first playoff look. The query now’s whether or not his versatile ability set will translate over the course of a grueling seven-game sequence.
Up subsequent, each groups take the court docket once more on Saturday. The Spurs head to Memphis, hoping to snap their dropping skid towards the Grizzlies, whereas the Rockets look to maintain their momentum going as they host the Sacramento Kings on the Toyota Middle.