Celtics Fall Short in Houston as Sengun Leads Rockets Past Boston

A Definitive Home Win

The Houston Rockets established complete control on Monday night, defeating the Boston Celtics 109-93 at Toyota Center. While the first quarter ended in a stalemate, the home team’s defensive intensity and efficient scoring output created an insurmountable gap that the visitors could not close.

First Quarter Stalemate

The game began with offensive balance from both sides. The Celtics opened the scoring through Kevin Durant and Baylor Scheierman, but Houston responded immediately with a Fred VanVleet three-pointer and back-to-back free throws from Amen Thompson. The early exchanges were tight, with Hugo Gonzalez and Jayson Tatum trading baskets for Boston, while Sengun and Tari Eason kept the Rockets within striking distance.

By the end of the first period, both teams had reached 29 points, setting a competitive tone before Houston began to pull away.

The Second Quarter Surge

Houston’s offense found its rhythm in the second quarter, leveraging superior ball movement and transition opportunities. Alperen Sengun continued his efficient night with a driving layup and a dunk, while Jabari Smith Jr. added a three-pointer from beyond the arc. Amen Thompson and Oscar Tshiebwe also contributed to the surge, pushing the lead to 12 points by halftime.

Despite Jayson Tatum hitting a three-pointer for Boston, the Celtics could not match Houston’s scoring depth, entering the break trailing 57-50.

Third Quarter Consolidation

The Rockets extended their advantage early in the third quarter, with Fred VanVleet and Sengun connecting on long-range shots. Sengun’s playmaking was pivotal, as he dished out assists to teammates for layups and dunks. Although Neemias Queta provided some scoring for Boston with tip-ins and three-pointers, the Celtics’ defense struggled to contain Houston’s interior threats.

The quarter ended with Houston leading 82-73, having built a cushion that would prove decisive in the final period.

Fourth Quarter Dominance and Final Result

Houston maintained its momentum into the fourth quarter, with Marcus Smart and Reed Sheppard adding three-pointers to the scoreboard. Sengun continued to distribute effectively, assisting on multiple key baskets, including a dunk by Amen Thompson. The Celtics’ defense remained porous, allowing Houston to reach 109 points.

Jayson Tatum finished with 19 points, nine assists, and six rebounds for Boston, but it was not enough to overcome the deficit. Alperen Sengun led all scorers with 26 points and added 10 assists, while Jabari Smith Jr. grabbed 10 rebounds for Houston. The win improves the Rockets’ record to 7-1, while the Celtics drop to 5-2.

Sources

ESPN