Jalen Green delivered a career-high 35 points, including five three-pointers, to propel the Houston Rockets to a hard-fought 121-115 victory against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday night. The Toyota Center erupted as Green’s fourth-quarter heroics sealed the win, marking Houston’s third consecutive triumph.
Alperen Sengun dominated the paint with 24 points and 13 rebounds, while rookie Amen Thompson added 17 points and 10 boards. “Our rebounding intensity set the tone,” Rockets coach Ime Udoka emphasized post-game. Houston outrebounded Minnesota 48-35, a stat Udoka highlighted as pivotal.
“Jabari’s return gave us that extra edge defensively. We needed every possession tonight.”
Jabari Smith Jr., returning after a 22-game absence due to a hand injury, contributed 15 critical points off the bench. His presence energized Houston’s second unit during a tense third quarter.
Anthony Edwards led Minnesota with 37 points but struggled against double teams in the final frame, shooting just 1-for-6. Key Timberwolves performances included:
- Naz Reid: 22 points, 8 rebounds
- Jaden McDaniels: 21 points
- Nickeil Alexander-Walker: 16 points
With the score tied at 108, Green’s step-back three ignited a 9-2 Rockets run, clinching the game. Houston shot 50% from the field and an impressive 13-of-26 from deep, while Minnesota’s 28% three-point efficiency proved costly.
Both teams face quick turnarounds, with Minnesota hosting Oklahoma City on Sunday and Houston visiting Utah Saturday night. This win strengthens the Rockets’ playoff push in the tightly contested Western Conference.
