‘Attack mode’: Alperen Sengun breaks 40 as Rockets (10-3) hold off Jazz
Alperen Sengun scored 43 points on elite efficiency, and the Rockets (10-3) needed nearly all of them to withstand a strong effort from Utah.
The Houston Rockets secured a crucial 125-118 victory over the Utah Jazz on Friday night, marking the team's second 40-point game from Alperen Sengun in his NBA career. Sengun, who finished with 43 points, 12 rebounds, and 5 assists, was the cornerstone of the Rockets' performance. Fred VanVleet praised Sengun's all-around contribution, stating that the team needed every point and rebound from him.
The win extended the Rockets' perfect 3-0 homestand, raising their regular season record to 10-3. Utah, meanwhile, fell to 1-12. Key standout players for the Jazz included Darryn Peterson with 28 points and 7 rebounds, Keyonte George with 27 points and 7 assists, Kevin Durant with 22 points and 6 assists, and Fred VanVleet with 17 points and 3 assists.
The win also marked Houston's 1-1 record in the Emirates NBA Cup 2026 group-stage play, while the Jazz remain 0-2. The absence of Marcus Smart due to a three-game suspension highlighted the Rockets' need for defensive reinforcements. With the homestand at Toyota Center concluded, the Rockets are set to begin a four-game road trip, starting with a matchup against the Washington Wizards on Sunday night.
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