Houston Rockets: a 108-99 victory over Memphis after overcoming a significant deficit

The Houston Rockets secured a convincing 108-99 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies, in a game that perfectly illustrates Memphis’s recurring problems this season. The Grizzlies, once again without Ja Morant and decimated by injuries, squandered another double-digit lead to fall against a full-strength Houston team.

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Memphis collapses offensively despite a good start

The Memphis Grizzlies had a disastrous offensive night, converting only 37% of their shots and just 19% of their 3-point attempts. Vince Williams particularly symbolized these struggles by making only three baskets on fifteen attempts. The team scored 30 points in the second quarter, but never exceeded 24 points in the other periods.

The Grizzlies’ young players selected for the NBA Rising Stars Game – Cam Spencer, Cedric Coward and Jaylen Wells – were all very inefficient. Even GG Jackson, with his 14 points on 15 shots, posted one of the team’s best offensive performances, which speaks volumes about the difficulties encountered.

Status Report: @memgrizz at @HoustonRockets, January 26: pic.twitter.com/v5ucNiIZqO

— Grizzlies PR (@GrizzliesPR) January 26, 2026

Sengun and Durant shine for Houston

Alperen Sengun dominated the paint with an exceptional performance of 33 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists, converting 15 of his 17 shot attempts. Against him, Memphis could only field Santi Aldama and Jaren Jackson Jr., insufficient to contain the Turkish center.

Kevin Durant also delivered a high-level performance with 33 points on 11/24 shooting, including 4/9 from 3-point range, plus 8 rebounds. The 37-year-old forward continues to impress with his consistency, even though his heavy minutes raise questions about roster management.

Amen Thompson was excellent at point guard with 14 assists against only 4 turnovers, accompanied by 8 points and 8 rebounds. His progress at the point guard position is becoming increasingly evident.

Questions about Memphis’s strategy

Coach Tuomas Iisalo’s tactical choices continue to raise questions. John Konchar played 20 minutes for only one shot attempt, while players like Ty Jerome have been absent for months with a calf injury. This management raises questions about the Grizzlies’ true intentions this season.

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With this loss, Memphis definitively exits the play-in race and appears headed for a difficult end to the season. The Rockets, meanwhile, boast an impressive 16-3 home record and are preparing to face San Antonio next Wednesday.