Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka discussed his team’s 125–124 double-overtime defeat to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday night at Paycom Center. Udoka described the loss as a game full of opportunities and mistakes that ultimately cost Houston the win.
“The takeaways from a game like that with so many twists and turns… we had plenty of opportunity to win it and we made enough mistakes to lose it,” Udoka said. He highlighted late-game errors, missed free throws, and defensive lapses that allowed Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to seal the win.
Alperen Sengun led Houston with 39 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists, including five three-pointers. Udoka praised Sengun’s performance and his ability to create opportunities for teammates. “When they face-guard Kevin [Durant], it opens up the court for others,” he said, emphasizing the Rockets’ plan to distribute playmaking responsibilities.
Udoka explained the team’s strategy of relying on a “point guard by committee,” allowing multiple players to initiate offense depending on defensive pressure amid Fred VanVleet’s absence. “We don’t have to rely on one guy… we can release it to KD and those other guys,” he said, noting this approach will be important throughout the season.
Kevin Durant returned to Oklahoma City for the first time as a Rocket, scoring 23 points and grabbing nine rebounds before fouling out in the final seconds. Udoka mentioned Durant’s role as a release valve for teammates early in the shot clock while giving room for younger players like Sengun to take over late in the game.
Udoka also addressed Amen Thompson’s contributions and his ability to find space in critical moments. “Alpi [Sengun] got those openings late… they didn’t want to help off him and allowed him to work,” Udoka said. He stressed that different players will step up in various matchups, depending on defensive schemes.
Reflecting on the regulation period, Udoka said it was harder to accept than the double-overtime stretch. “Regulation is harder when we have a lead and do some things that put us in a good place to finish,” he said, citing offensive rebounds, fouls, and missed free throws as key factors.
