News - Sengun Shines: Rockets Dominate Jazz with Showstopping Slam

In a thrilling NBA matchup on Monday night, Houston Rockets' center Alperen Sengun captivated fans with an extraordinary reverse slam dunk against the Utah Jazz. As Sengun enters his fifth NBA season, his dynamic playmaking and offensive prowess have solidified his reputation as a standout big man in the league. During the game, Sengun dazzled viewers in the third quarter, executing a stunning euro step past the defender before launching himself for a reverse dunk aided by a seamless pick-and-roll action orchestrated with teammate Kevin Durant. Sengun's prowess was just one highlight in a night where the Rockets displayed their dominance, ultimately defeating the Jazz 125-105 on their home court. Key strategic elements contributed to Houston's decisive victory, notably their command of perimeter shooting and rebounding. The Rockets outshot the Jazz from beyond the arc, sinking 18 three-pointers, and outrebounded them with a total of 53 boards to Utah's 36. Multiple Rockets players delivered noteworthy performances. Sengun posted an impressive near triple-double with 16 points, nine rebounds, and nine assists, supplemented by two blocks and a steal, shooting efficiently with 7-of-12 from the floor. Jabari Smith Jr. was another standout player, garnering 31 points, nine rebounds, three steals, and three blocks. Supporting efforts included Amen Thompson with 20 points and seven rebounds, Kevin Durant contributing 18 points and 12 assists, Reed Sheppard adding 15 points and four assists, and Tari Eason with 11 points and 10 rebounds. This victory not only enhanced the Rockets' record to 35-21 but also affirmed their position, solidifying them in fourth place in the Western Conference standings. Currently, they sit one game ahead of the Los Angeles Lakers and the Minnesota Timberwolves while keeping a keen eye on the Denver Nuggets, whom they trail by a tiebreaker, and the San Antonio Spurs, who lead them by 5.5 games. The Rockets are set to continue their home stand as they gear up to face the Sacramento Kings. The game is scheduled for Feb. 25, with a tip-off at 8 p.m. ET, as Houston aims to build upon their momentum and pursue further victories in their playoff push.