Alperen Sengun’s 39 points power Rockets past Pacers 118-114 in Indianapolis on February 2

Rockets win despite key absences, lean on rebounding edge and late execution

The Houston Rockets defeated the Indiana Pacers 118-114 on Monday, Feb. 2, 2026, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, improving to 31-17. Indiana fell to 13-37.

Houston played without Kevin Durant, who was ruled out with a left ankle sprain. The Rockets were also shorthanded by injuries to Fred VanVleet (knee) and Steven Adams (ankle surgery), increasing the importance of frontcourt production and lineup flexibility on the road.

Sengun sets the tone with scoring and second-chance work

Center Alperen Sengun delivered the defining performance of the night, finishing with a season-high 39 points while adding 16 rebounds and five assists. His scoring came primarily from interior touches and finishes around the rim, and his work on the glass generated extra possessions that proved decisive in a four-point game.

Houston’s advantage on the offensive boards was a consistent theme. The Rockets recorded 17 offensive rebounds and finished with a 52-32 overall rebounding margin, which translated into repeated second-chance opportunities and a steady stream of free throws in the fourth quarter.

Team contributions and the numbers that swung the game

Houston received secondary scoring from Jabari Smith Jr., who added 19 points. The Rockets also benefited from guard rotation adjustments in Durant’s absence, with expanded minutes for Aaron Holiday as the team balanced playmaking responsibilities.

• Free throws: Houston went 29-for-32 (91%), compared with Indiana’s 14-for-19 (74%).
• Three-point shooting: Indiana hit 12-of-24 (50%), while Houston went 7-of-22 (32%).
• Ball security: Houston committed 15 turnovers to Indiana’s 10, with the Pacers producing 21 fast-break points to Houston’s four.

The contrast underscored the game’s shape: Indiana created perimeter efficiency and transition chances, while Houston countered with size, extra possessions, and a major free-throw advantage.

Fourth-quarter finish

After three quarters, Indiana led 87-86. Houston outscored the Pacers 31-27 in the fourth, with Sengun’s late touches and offensive rebounds helping the Rockets control key possessions in the closing minutes. Indiana’s comeback attempts were pressured by Houston’s ability to extend possessions and convert from the line.

Final: Rockets 118, Pacers 114 — Houston improved to 31-17 with a road win anchored by rebounding and free-throw efficiency.