Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka lauded his team’s depth and defensive effort following a 104-100 road victory over the Golden State Warriors on Wednesday at Chase Center.
Reed Sheppard led the Rockets with a career-high 31 points, nine rebounds, and five assists, sparking Houston’s comeback from a 12-point halftime deficit. Udoka said, “Reed really held us together when guys were struggling… his baskets were needed, especially early and late.”
Alperen Sengun contributed 16 points, six rebounds, and six assists, while the Rockets capitalized on 22 points off 16 Golden State turnovers. Udoka highlighted the team’s physicality, noting it helped disrupt Stephen Curry, who missed his usual rhythm.
Houston shot 39% from the field and 28% from three, but Udoka emphasized that the team’s defensive identity remained intact. “We can do both offensively and defensively… on a night where we don’t shoot our best, we can still rely on that and hold a team to 100,” he said.
The Rockets were without Kevin Durant and Steven Adams, yet Udoka praised contributions from Aaron Holiday, Clint Capela, and other role players. “Our depth is there… different guys coming in and contributing,” he said, highlighting Capela’s eight offensive rebounds.
Udoka also recognized Sheppard’s defensive growth. “Offensively he’s making shots, but defensively he’s shown the most improvement… taking on challenges and limiting blowbys,” Udoka explained.
Houston relied on consistent aggressiveness, a hallmark of the team’s recent identity, despite roster changes over the summer. Udoka said, “We don’t want to lose that mentality… it rubs off on everybody.”
The Rockets trailed 59-47 at halftime but closed the third quarter on a 5-0 run, with Sheppard’s consecutive baskets bringing them within two points heading into the fourth. Moses Moody’s late three-pointer narrowed the gap further, but Sheppard’s free throws sealed the win.
The victory gives Houston its seventh win in eight games, solidifying confidence as they prepare for a back-to-back road trip at Utah beginning Sunday. Golden State falls to 10-10 and will host New Orleans on Saturday for Kevon Looney’s return.
