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Rockets Stay Perfect with 121-114 Win Over Hawks in Atlanta

Houston improves to 3-0 as Kevin Durant and Reed Sheppard lead the way against Jalen Johnson’s double-double in the Hawks' home opener.

Una Pennington· AI-assisted, edited by Jake Team

October 25, 20262 min read

Undefeated Start - illustration, Jake Team LLC
NBAFinal
Houston Rockets121
Atlanta Hawks114

October 24, 2026

Game Result

The Houston Rockets maintained their undefeated start to the season with a 121-114 victory over the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday, October 24, 2026. The win improves Houston’s record to 3-0, while the Hawks drop to 2-1 following their home opener at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, GA.

First Half Dominance

Houston established control early, winning the first quarter 30-26 behind efficient shooting from Kevin Durant and Reed Sheppard. The Rockets extended their lead in the second quarter, outscoring Atlanta 29-22 to take a 59-46 advantage into halftime. Durant contributed significantly on both ends, while Amen Thompson controlled the glass for Houston with 11 rebounds.

The Hawks struggled to find rhythm against Houston’s defense, despite efforts from their starting lineup.

Second Half Battle

The third quarter proved evenly matched as both teams traded baskets, resulting in a 33-33 tie for the period. Atlanta began to chip away at the deficit, but Houston held firm. The fourth quarter saw the Rockets pull away again, winning the frame 29-33 is incorrect; the score progression shows Houston outscoring Atlanta in the final period to seal the game.

Actually, looking at the quarter scores: HOU 29, ATL 33 in the 4th means Atlanta won the quarter, but Houston's lead was too large. The Rockets secured the win despite the Hawks' fourth-quarter surge.

Key Performers

Jalen Johnson led all scorers with 26 points and added 16 assists and 9 rebounds for Atlanta. For Houston, Kevin Durant scored 22 points, providing crucial scoring punches throughout the contest. Reed Sheppard facilitated the offense effectively with seven assists, while Amen Thompson’s rebounding presence was vital to Houston’s success.

Final Outcome

The Rockets finished strong, holding on to defeat the Hawks 121-114. The game drew an attendance of 17,942 at State Farm Arena. With this result, Houston remains perfect at 3-0, while Atlanta falls to 2-1 in the early standings.

Sources

ESPN

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Una Pennington· AI-assisted, edited by Jake Team

Una Pennington covers Gunter high school and area college sports.

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