Amen Thompson’s Clutch Shot Lifts Rockets Over Celtics 114-112/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Amen Thompson scored 33 points, including a game-winning floater with 0.7 seconds left, as the Houston Rockets rallied to defeat the Boston Celtics 114-112. Dillon Brooks added 36 points, including 10 three-pointers, to secure Houston’s ninth win in 11 games. The Celtics, led by Jaylen Brown’s 28 points, fell short despite Jayson Tatum’s late-game heroics.
Rockets vs. Celtics: Quick Looks
- Game-Winner: Amen Thompson hit a clutch floater with 0.7 seconds remaining to seal the Rockets’ victory.
- Top Scorers: Dillon Brooks led Houston with 36 points (10 three-pointers), while Jaylen Brown scored 28 for Boston.
- Key Stat: Jayson Tatum went scoreless in the first half but scored 19 points in the second.
- Takeaways: The Rockets rallied after trailing by 12 in the fourth quarter, while Boston was shorthanded due to injuries.
- What’s Next: The Rockets face the Hawks on Tuesday, while the Celtics host the Bulls on Wednesday.
Amen Thompson’s Clutch Shot Lifts Rockets Over Celtics 114-112
Deep Look
Dillon Brooks was the star from beyond the arc, hitting 10 three-pointers and leading all scorers with 36 points. The Rockets secured their ninth win in 11 games, continuing their surprising push in the Western Conference.
Thrilling Fourth Quarter
Houston rallied from a 12-point deficit in the final quarter, sparked by Thompson and Brooks’ timely shooting. Brooks nailed his 10th three-pointer with 1:39 remaining to put the Rockets ahead 108-106.
Thompson’s heroics came after a dramatic exchange of baskets. With just 5.3 seconds left, Jayson Tatum drove through the Rockets’ defense for a game-tying layup. On the next play, Thompson took the ball just outside the three-point line, drove past Jaylen Brown, and hit the decisive floater over the outstretched defender.
“I just stayed aggressive and trusted my shot,” Thompson said after the game.
Celtics’ Struggles
The Celtics were without several key players, including Al Horford (scratched during warmups), Derrick White (bruised shin), and Sam Hauser (hip injury). Coach Joe Mazzulla was forced to rotate deep into the bench, leading to unconventional lineups.
Jayson Tatum, Boston’s star forward, had a sluggish start, missing all five of his first-half shot attempts. However, he rebounded in the second half, finishing with 19 points and keeping the Celtics in contention late in the game.
Jaylen Brown led Boston with 28 points, while Luke Kornet and Kristaps Porzingis added 18 and 17 points, respectively.
Key Takeaways
- Rockets’ Momentum: Houston continues to impress, following their second victory over East-leading Cleveland last week with another statement win.
- Celtics Shorthanded: Injuries and late lineup adjustments left Boston vulnerable, especially in the closing minutes.
- Clutch Performers: Dillon Brooks’ sharpshooting and Amen Thompson’s composure in crunch time made the difference.
Up Next
The Rockets continue their four-game road trip with a visit to the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the Celtics will look to bounce back as they host the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday night.
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