NEW ORLEANS — Alperen Sengun’s stellar performance, scoring a career-high 37 points along with 11 rebounds, propelled the Houston Rockets to a narrow 106-104 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Saturday night. Sengun’s agility and speed played a crucial role in outmaneuvering Pelicans’ veteran Jonas Valanciunas, leading to a matchup that favored the young Rockets’ center.
While acknowledging Valanciunas’ strength, Sengun utilized his quickness to gain an advantage, resulting in Valanciunas fouling out with just over four minutes left in the game. This strategic play was a significant factor in the Rockets’ win.
Jabari Smith Jr. contributed impressively with 26 points and 11 rebounds, while Fred VanVleet added 10 points. Houston’s defensive effort and transition play frustrated the Pelicans, evidenced by their 11-0 advantage in fast-break points.
Smith, in his second year out of Auburn, is showing signs of emerging as a consistent scoring threat, having scored at least 26 points in two of his last three games. Rockets coach Ime Udoka praised Smith’s growing confidence and ability to use his size effectively.
The Pelicans’ Zion Williamson led his team with 28 points, primarily through powerful moves near the basket. Brandon Ingram and Trey Murphy added 19 and 14 points, respectively. However, turnovers in crucial moments and missed free throws, including five by Williamson, proved costly for New Orleans.
Pelicans coach Willie Green emphasized the need for better execution, particularly in taking care of the ball and making free throws. The team also struggled from the three-point line, missing 23 of their 31 attempts.
The game remained closely contested throughout, with no team leading by more than seven points. The Pelicans held a six-point lead early in the fourth quarter, but Houston’s bench sparked a 9-0 run against New Orleans’ starters, turning the tide in the Rockets’ favor.
Williamson acknowledged Houston’s physical play, which played a role in their victory. The game’s intensity was also evident in a first-half scuffle involving Jose Alvarado, Smith, and Naji Marshall, leading to technical fouls.
Williamson’s 18 first-half points, including a rare three-pointer, initially gave the Pelicans the momentum, but the Rockets managed to close out the game effectively, thanks to Sengun’s scoring in the final minutes.
Sengun, expressing confidence in his future, highlighted his young age and determination to continue improving and contributing to his team.
Both teams are set to continue their campaigns on Tuesday night, with the Rockets hosting Indiana and the Pelicans facing Memphis.
