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The Houston Rockets secured a 112-106 road win over the Oklahoma City Thunder behind a 17-point, 12-rebound, 11-assist triple-double from Turkish center Alperen Sengun.
The Rockets overturned a double-digit deficit against the Western Conference leader, while Oklahoma City played without reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander due to an abdominal injury.
Sengun delivered his second triple-double of the season and the 10th of his NBA career, adding three steals and three blocks while driving the turnaround on both ends of the floor.
Kevin Durant, who attempted only three shots in the first half, finished with 20 points on 6-of-10 shooting and converted key late possessions.
Houston received balanced scoring from its starting unit, with Tari Eason producing a season-high 26 points and Jabari Smith Jr. adding 22 points and 10 rebounds as the team snapped a two-game losing streak.
Oklahoma City, which remained first in the Western Conference at 40-13 in the latest standings, was led by Cason Wallace with 23 points and Isaiah Joe with 21, while Chet Holmgren recorded 17 points and 14 rebounds. Houston improved to 32-19 and held fourth place in the conference table.
Houston trailed by as many as 15 points in the second quarter but reduced the gap through defensive pressure and transition scoring, then took control in the third period with a decisive run that put the visitors ahead 80-74 entering the fourth.
Sengun controlled tempo from the high post and drew defensive attention that opened space for cutters and perimeter shooters, while Eason and Smith converted second-chance opportunities. Durant sealed the late stretch with a short jumper that extended the lead to six points in the final minute.
The result tightened the Western Conference race, with Houston strengthening its playoff position as several contenders managed injuries ahead of the All-Star break.
Oklahoma City stayed at the top of the conference, while Houston gained ground with a road win over the conference leader.
Houston next hosts the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday, Feb. 10, while Oklahoma City visits the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday, Feb. 11.
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