Spurs end 11-game free fall, beat Rockets, 118-109
By Emmanuel Rivera, RRT PhilBoxing.com Fri, 09 Dec 2022
December 8, 2022
The Spurs threw a terrific welcome back party at home for Coach Gregg Popovich after his two-game absence.
His return from a “minor medical procedure” must have done wonders as an inspired San Antonio team ended their 11-game slide to the cellar by beating the Rockets, 118-109, on Thursday night.
Keldon Johnson scorched the visiting Rockets with 32 points (67% FG and 3 treys).
“This has been the first game in a while where we were clicking defensively,” Johnson was quoted by NBA.com and added, “If we can keep that mindset of defense first, get stops and we let the offense take care of itself, we’ll be in great shape.”
Tré Johnson scored a career-best 26 points, including 3 treys, converting on his first 9 shots. Doug McDermott and Josh Richardson added 12 points each as San Antonio won for the first time since November 11.
Rising star Filipino-American Green showed flashes of brilliance early in the first quarter dunking an alley oop; however, Green and Kevin Porter, Jr. combined for a paltry 10-of-33 shooting (30.3% FG).
Rookie Houston forward Jabari Smith Jr. soared for a career-high 23 points on 9-of-13 shooting (69.2% FG), including 4-of-7 on treys (57.1% 3-PT). Alperen Sengun added 16 points and 11 rebounds.
The visiting Rockets did not carry their momentum from their thrilling, 132-123, double-OT victory over the 76’ers last Monday. Their collective efforts were not enough to overcome the sharp shooting Spurs.
As a team, San Antonio sank 46 of 83 field goals (55.4%) and 13 of 36 treys (36.1% 3-PT). By contrast, as a team, Houston scored 44 of 98 field goals (44.9%) and 10 of 29 treys (34.5% 3-PT).
Both teams are now 7-18 early this season.
Welcome back, Coach Popovich!
Upcoming:
Houston Rockets: Host Milwaukee Bucks on Sunday to begin a seven-game homestand.
San Antonio Spurs: Visit Miami Heat on Saturday.
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