Alperen Sengun’s 4.5-second free throws seal Rockets’ 109-108 win over Cavaliers

Alperen Sengun played a pivotal role in the Houston Rockets’ 109-108 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday night.

With just 4.5 seconds remaining, Sengun made two crucial free throws to give the Rockets a slight lead. Afterward, Cleveland’s Darius Garland missed two out of three free throws, allowing Houston to hold on for the win.

A thrilling back-and-forth game

The game was filled with lead changes, with the Rockets holding a 13-point advantage with around 11 minutes left. However, the Cavaliers launched an impressive 19-0 run, taking a 104-98 lead with about four minutes to go.

The Rockets rallied late, with Fred VanVleet breaking a seven-minute scoring drought by hitting a key three-pointer. He followed it up with another three-pointer, tying the game at 104-104.

Alperen Sengun’s standout performance

Alperen Sengun had an impressive all-around performance, finishing with 18 points, 11 rebounds and four assists. He shot seven-of-13 from the field and four-of-six from the free-throw line. His two critical free throws in the final moments were essential in securing the Rockets’ win.

Dramatic final seconds

In the closing moments, Cleveland’s Tari Eason fouled Garland on a three-point attempt, leading to a flagrant foul. Garland was awarded three free throws, but he missed two of them, giving the Rockets the edge. Despite a final three-point attempt by Donovan Mitchell that missed, the Rockets managed to hold on and win the game.