Rockets Dominate Thunder 116-89 Behind Bogdanovic’s 15 Points

A Lopsided Home Victory

The Houston Rockets secured a decisive 116-89 victory over the visiting Oklahoma City Thunder at Toyota Center on Thursday, October 15, 2026. The win improved Houston’s record to 2-1, while the Thunder fell to 1-4 on the season. Bogdan Bogdanovic led all scorers with 15 points for the Rockets, as the home team controlled the contest from start to finish.

First Quarter: Early Rocket Surge

Houston established dominance early, outscoring Oklahoma City 33-15 in the opening period. The Rockets jumped out to a quick lead, fueled by efficient inside scoring and timely three-point shooting. Amen Thompson was highly active, contributing multiple dunks and assists.

Alperen Sengun also made his presence felt with two dunks and an assist. Tari Eason added depth with a step-back jumper and a dunk assisted by Marcus Smart. Reed Sheppard hit a crucial three-pointer late in the quarter to extend the lead.

Despite Kevin Durant hitting a fadeaway jumper, the Thunder could not keep pace with Houston’s offensive rhythm.

Second Quarter: Maintaining Control

The Rockets carried their momentum into the second half, though Oklahoma City began to chip away at the deficit. Houston led 46-38 at halftime after winning the quarter 25-19? No, the quarter scores indicate Houston scored 21 in the second quarter while Oklahoma City scored 32. Wait, let us re-examine the quarter totals.

Houston Rockets quarter scores: 33, 21, 25, 37. Total: 116. Oklahoma City Thunder quarter scores: 15, 32, 22, 20. Total: 89.

The Thunder outscored Houston 32-21 in the second quarter, narrowing the gap to 54-47 at halftime. Jalen Williams was the standout for Oklahoma City, hitting multiple jumpers and driving layups. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander contributed with a three-pointer and free throws. However, Bogdan Bogdanovic sparked a late run for Houston with a series of three-pointers and pull-up shots in the third quarter to widen the gap again.

Third Quarter: Expanding the Lead

Houston regained control in the third quarter, winning it 25-22. Bogdan Bogdanovic was instrumental, hitting several long-range shots to push the lead back into double digits. Fred VanVleet orchestrated the offense effectively, dishing out eight assists on the night and hitting a three-pointer himself.

Alperen Sengun continued his strong play with seven rebounds and multiple baskets. The Rockets’ defense held firm, limiting Oklahoma City’s scoring opportunities despite Williams’ efforts.

Fourth Quarter: Closing It Out

The Rockets sealed the game in the fourth quarter, outscoring the Thunder 37-20. Reed Sheppard hit another three-pointer, and Bruce Thornton added a long-range shot of his own. Isaiah Crawford contributed with two threes for Houston.

Brooks Barnhizer led Oklahoma City’s late scoring efforts, but it was too little, too late. The final margin of 27 points reflected Houston’s comprehensive performance. Fred VanVleet’s playmaking and Bogdan Bogdanovic’s scoring were the key differentiators in this non-conference matchup.

Sources

ESPN