Rockets' Aggressive Defense Shuts Down Victor Wembanyama in Win vs. Spurs

Headline by Dillon Brooks, the Houston Rockets had another defensive shutdown of Spurs' rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama.

SAN ANTONIO -- The Houston Rockets closed their four-game regular season series against the San Antonio Spurs with a 103-101 victory Tuesday night. The win was a testament to the Rockets' resilience amid San Antonio's fourth-quarter comeback attempt. But more importantly, Houston's play showcased its renowned defense against Victor Wembanyama.

The presumed Rookie of the Year winner had another subpar performance against Houston, as he finished with 13 points, 10 rebounds and six assists. 

Wembanyama's performance marked his third consecutive game of playing against Houston, where he failed to score 20 or more points. A massive role in the Rockets' successful defense against Wembanyama was due to the production of Dillon Brooks.

Rockets forward Dillon Brooks (9) reacts after scoring a three-point basket during the second half against the San Antonio Spurs at Frost Bank Center / Scott Wachter-USA TODAY Sports

"I love guarding the best players," Brooks said. "He brings a unique game to the game of basketball; just playing a little bit more physical and getting under him. Limiting his roles to the rim. Not letting him get second-chance points."

Wembanyama described playing against the Rockets as "a very aggressive team." Over the last three games, he has averaged 12.6 points on 44.0 percent shooting. 

The lone Rookie of the Year performance Wembanyama had against the Rockets came during Houston's four-point overtime loss on Oct. 27.

Rockets' Cam Whitmore Likely Out Three Weeks Due to Knee Injury

The Rockets' defensive play against Wembanyama was a sample size of the team's solid defense in March. They have won five of their previous six games while possessing the league's seventh-best defensive rating. 

Houston's record has improved to 30-35 amid their ongoing push toward the Play-In Tournament. Entering Thursday's interconference match against the Washington Wizards, the Rockets are 11th in the Western Conference, sitting four games behind the Golden State Warriors for the 10th and final Play-In spot.