HOUSTON (AP) — The Houston Rockets extended their winning streak to six games with a thrilling 117-114 victory over the Chicago Bulls on March 16, 2025, thanks to stellar performances from their star players, particularly Jalen Green, who scored 28 points.
Joining Green’s impressive tally was Alperen Sengun, who contributed 24 points and 15 rebounds, and Fred VanVleet, who had 23 points, shooting 8 for 20 from the field, including 5 for 14 beyond the arc. This victory not only solidified the Rockets' place among the top teams of the Western Conference, but it also marked the end of the Chicago Bulls' four-game winning streak.
The Bulls, led by Coby White with 23 points and Tre Jones with 19, started the game strong. They built up to a 29-22 lead at the end of the first quarter, taking advantage of their outstanding three-point shooting, going 7-for-12 from downtown, compared to the Rockets' disappointing 2-for-13 during the same period.
Although the Rockets struggled initially, VanVleet found his rhythm, scoring 18 points during the second quarter. Despite the Rockets' efforts, they were still down 65-60 at halftime. The first half saw the Bulls capitalizing on turnovers and scoring significantly on fast breaks, with Chicago scoring 13 points off Houston’s turnovers.
Houston's second half, particularly the final quarter, unleashed their potential. At the start of the fourth, the Rockets found themselves trailing but managed to turn the tides. Green's pivotal 3-pointer gave the Rockets the 100-98 lead with just under six minutes to play, and from there, they never looked back.
The game showcased intense back-and-forth action throughout. The Rockets employed a double-big lineup featuring Sengun alongside Steven Adams for added strength against the Bulls' interior play. This strategy paid dividends as the Rockets began to dominate the boards, finishing the game with 54 rebounds to the Bulls' 36.
Once Houston regained the lead, they maintained it effectively with key contributions from their players. Another notable moment came when Green scored then followed it up with a layup, pushing the Rockets’ lead to five points with just over 14 seconds left.
For the Bulls, the loss was disappointing as they had entered the game with momentum from their recent achievements. Chicago’s performance included solid efforts from Jones and White, but as the game progressed, they were unable to match the Rockets' late-game execution.
The Rockets’ victory now sets them up for their next challenge as they prepare to face the Philadelphia 76ers on March 17, 2025. This game is building excitement as both teams are battling for playoff positioning.
Meanwhile, the Bulls will regroup as they head to Utah to take on the Jazz. The loss not only snapped their winning streak but also provided lessons they hope to apply moving forward.
The Rockets improved their overall home record to 25-10 and made headlines for their resilience, proving they can compete at the highest level, especially when the stakes are high.
With this win, the Rockets continue to push through the season with high expectations for the playoffs, leaving fans hopeful for their chances as they maintain momentum through the whirlwind of NBA action.