Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka highlighted the team’s resilience after their 111-107 victory over Dallas, saying, “Yeah, it was a good one. Good composure at the end…we get some stops when we need to, and those always help big picture wise to win some games in crunchtime situations.”
Udoka addressed Cooper Flagg’s late-game impact, noting, “I think obviously Flagg made some shots, got downhill way too much. We weren’t being solid enough…he took advantage of that.”
On defensive adjustments, he added, “The last play that our man guarded him I think was the most solid we were. Stay in front, didn’t reach, didn’t gamble…made him finish over, and we got a stop.”
The coach praised Jabari Smith Jr., saying, “It was good, especially with Kevin and Alpi having a little bit of off night shooting…six guys in double figures and solid defensive first half.”
Udoka stressed the importance of balance, noting, “It’s needed. We’re not relying on one or two guys…Amen, Jabari, Tari, and Josh making some shots tonight as well.”
He commented on Amen Thompson’s versatility, saying, “He’s doing it different ways…sometimes he’s called upon to score, make plays for others…his aggressiveness is great, and all-around game in general.”
Reflecting on Flagg’s growth, Udoka added, “The growth he’s taken, the steps he’s taken…impressive to see a teenager doing some of the things he’s doing.”
The Rockets’ offensive execution earned recognition, as Udoka explained, “To have only one turnover at halftime was great, and only four more in the second half…33 assists, quality shots…winning that possession.”
On Alperen Sengun’s effort, he said, “Guys aren’t going to be 100% right now, but something he has to play through…love his aggressiveness…he could have easily went 10 for 20.”
Udoka emphasized the importance of team depth and versatility, concluding, “Balance is great when your main guys have off nights, and others pick up the slack…encourage guys to be confident and aggressive.”
