MEMPHIS, Tenn. — In an impressive display of resilience and skill, Dillon Brooks spearheaded the Houston Rockets’ comeback victory over the Memphis Grizzlies with a 103-96 win on Friday night. Brooks, who recently transferred to Houston after six seasons with Memphis, unleashed 24 of his 26 points in the second half, transforming an early double-digit deficit into a triumph.
Brooks’ performance was particularly noteworthy considering his struggle in the first half, where he shot just 1 of 9. His pivotal role in the second half, highlighted by a crucial 3-pointer with just 39.4 seconds left, propelled the Rockets to their fifth consecutive win. His late-game steal of an inbounds pass further cemented Houston’s victory.
Houston also saw significant contributions from Fred VanVleet, who added 16 points and eight assists, and Alperen Sengun, who finished with 15 points.
On the Memphis side, Desmond Bane led the team with 28 points and a career-high 13 rebounds, while Jaren Jackson Jr. contributed 22 points and four blocks. However, the Grizzlies’ struggles at home continued, dropping their record to 1-10 in Memphis.
The Rockets had already clinched the first two games of the season series, including a recent 117-104 win over Memphis. Despite the Grizzlies establishing a commanding 17-point lead in the first half, Houston methodically reduced the deficit, eventually taking a 75-74 lead into the fourth quarter.
Memphis has faced challenges this season, with a thin lineup due to injuries and the 25-game suspension of last year’s leading scorer, Ja Morant. Morant’s suspension is set to end on Tuesday, but the team has had difficulty finding its rhythm, evidenced by their poor home record and a three-game losing streak prior to Friday’s match.
The Rockets, despite struggling with shooting accuracy in the first half, managed to keep the game within reach, trailing by 10 points at halftime.
Looking ahead, the Rockets will face Milwaukee on Sunday, while the Grizzlies will take on Oklahoma City on Monday, as both teams seek to build on their performances.
