Houston Rockets End Preseason with Home Victory Over Miami Heat
HOUSTON — Ime Udoka had one purpose for the preseason — to use each game as a dry run as coach of the Houston Rockets. He took over a team that added several new players and changed its coaching staff as the franchise entered phase II of a rebuild.
Udoka's plan led to the Rockets ending their five-game preseason schedule with a 4-1 record Friday night inside the Toyota Center. Their final preseason win came in a 110-104 victory over the Miami Heat.
Jalen Green returned following a two-game absence due to a toe injury, which allowed Udoka to have his entire starting lineup for the first time since their 120-87 win over the New Orleans Pelicans on Oct. 12.
Each projected starter played nearly 30 minutes. Green led the way with 20 points on 6-of-15 shooting from the field, 3-of-7 from behind the arc. Fred VanVleet, who missed the previous game due to rest, also added 20 points and six assists in the win.
Behind a 32-point first-half outing from the starting backcourt, the Rockets held a 66-52 lead at the half.
Alperen Sengun had a bounce-back performance after a horrific game against the San Antonio Spurs Wednesday night. Against the Heat, he finished with 16 points, 12 rebounds and three blocks.
The Rockets were able to take control of the game after outscoring the Heat 36-21 during the second quarter. Miami held a 31-30 lead entering the second period.
Rookie Amen Thompson finished the game with 19 points, seven rebounds and four assists off the bench.
Heat guard Dru Smith (9) reaches for the ball against Houston Rockets guard Jalen Green (4) in the second quarter at Toyota Center.
Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports
Tari Eason missed his third consecutive game:
Tari Eason missed his third consecutive preseason game due to an ongoing leg contusion. Udoka said during his pre-game press conference that Eason could return for the Rockets' season opener.
Up Next:
The Rockets will open their 2023-24 season with a two-game road trip, which will begin Wednesday night against the Orlando Magic. They will then travel to San Antonio for an early division contest against the Spurs on Friday.
Tip-off between the Rockets and Magic is slated for 6 p.m. CST inside the Amway Center.
