In a game packed with drama and high stakes, the Houston Rockets overcame a blown double-digit lead to secure a 117-111 overtime victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in an NBA Cup clash Tuesday night.
Leading by Alperen Sengun's outstanding triple-double (22 points, 10 rebounds, 11 assists) and Fred VanVleet's 27 points and 11 assists, the Rockets survived a fierce Timberwolves revival to rise to 3-0 in West Group A of the NBA Cup. Coach Ime Udoka praised the effort, calling it "one of the season's sweetest wins."
Though his efforts were not able to stop a third consecutive loss, Minnesota's Anthony Edwards scored 29 points and 10 rebounds. In Mike Conley's absence, rookie Rob Dillingham stepped in with a finest performance this season adding 12 points, seven assists, and five rebounds.
Driven by Sengun, Dillon Brooks (22 points), and Amen Thompson, the rockets unleashed a commanding 8-0 run in overtime. Minnesota's late-game surge notwithstanding proved unable to overcome their previously 18-point third-quarter disadvantage.
With momentum for the following phases of the NBA Cup, the Rockets today have a 13-6 record. The Timberwolves (8–9) struggle to restore stability in meanwhile. Said Coach Chris Finch, "Same old thing, just not consistent all the way through the 48 minutes."
The win, highlighted by a strong team effort, secured Houston's spot in the quarterfinals.
