Sengun scores 23 as Rockets defeat Mavericks

Alperen Sengun delivered a commanding performance on Wednesday night, scoring 23 points to lead the Houston Rockets to a 110-99 victory over the Dallas Mavericks. Sengun’s efficient scoring and versatile play proved to be the catalyst for Houston’s decisive win, helping the team rebound after a two-game losing streak.

The 21-year-old center showcased his offensive prowess early, anchoring the Rockets’ pivotal 32-12 run that spanned the end of the first half and the start of the second. Sengun’s ability to finish around the rim and create opportunities for his teammates kept the Mavericks’ defense on its heels throughout the night.

Houston took control late in the second quarter, erasing a four-point deficit with a 21-8 surge to close the half leading 61-52. The Rockets maintained their dominance into the third quarter, opening with an 11-4 burst to stretch their lead to 16 points.

“We wanted to come out strong and make a statement,” Sengun said after the game. “It was about energy, effort, and playing as a team.”

Sengun’s performance highlighted his growing role as the centerpiece of Houston’s offense. His combination of scoring, passing, and rebounding has made him an indispensable asset for the Rockets this season.

With Jalen Green contributing 22 points and rookie Cam Whitmore adding 18 off the bench, Houston’s balanced attack complemented Sengun’s dominance in the paint. Dillon Brooks also chipped in 19 points, providing defensive intensity and timely scoring.

The Mavericks struggled to find consistency without Luka Doncic, who remains sidelined with a strained calf suffered on Christmas Day. Dallas, now 1-3 in Doncic’s absence, leaned on Quentin Grimes’ 17 points off the bench, while Kyrie Irving and Klay Thompson added 16 apiece.

However, Dallas’ offensive efforts were not enough to match Sengun and the Rockets, especially with the team shooting just 8 of 16 from the free-throw line compared to Houston’s 18 of 23.

With Sengun leading the way, the Rockets look to build on this momentum when they host the Boston Celtics on Friday. Meanwhile, the Mavericks, still adjusting to life without Doncic, will return home to face the Cleveland Cavaliers.

As Sengun continues to evolve into one of the league’s rising stars, his performance against Dallas is a testament to his potential to lead Houston into a bright future.