NBA Sunday Night Highlights
In a thrilling NBA matchup on Sunday night, the Houston Rockets triumphed over the New Orleans Pelicans with a score of 119-110. Jabari Smith Jr. led the charge for Houston, notching a season-best 32 points. Kevin Durant, who scored 18 points during the game, achieved a significant milestone by surpassing Hall of Famer Dirk Nowitzki on the all-time scoring list, putting him sixth overall with 31,562 career points. Durant’s achievement drew a standing ovation from the home crowd in Houston as he successfully made two free throws with just 15.2 seconds left on the clock.
Key Performances
Alperen Sengun contributed to the Rockets’ victory with 21 points and eight rebounds, while Amen Thompson also had a strong performance, finishing with 20 points. This win marks the Rockets as having secured three victories in their last four games.
On the other side, the Pelicans struggled, with Trey Murphy III leading their efforts by scoring 21 points, while Zion Williamson added 20 points and six rebounds. The defeat marked New Orleans’ fourth loss in their last five games, highlighting a tough period where they have lost 13 out of their last 15 matchups.
Other NBA Action
In other NBA action, the Memphis Grizzlies continued their ascent with a 126-109 victory over the Orlando Magic at London’s O2 Arena, marking the league’s first regular-season game in the UK since 2019. Ja Morant made a splashy return with 24 points and 13 assists, supported by Jock Landale and Jaren Jackson Jr..
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Lakers took down the Toronto Raptors 110-93, fueled by Luka Doncic’s 25 points and LeBron James’ 24 points, as Deandre Ayton made a notable return with 25 points and 13 rebounds.
Additionally, in Chicago, the Bulls bested the Nets 124-102, effectively splitting the home-and-home series. Coby White was a standout for Chicago with 24 points. In Denver, the Charlotte Hornets cruised past the injury-ridden Nuggets 110-87, led by Brandon Miller’s 23 points, while the Trail Blazers snuck past the Kings 117-110, with Deni Avdija contributing 26 points in his comeback game.
All teams continue to jockey for better standings as the regular season rolls on.
