Kevin Durant’s 35 points lift Rockets past Hornets 105-101 in Charlotte on February 19

Rockets close out a tight finish after overcoming an early deficit

The Houston Rockets defeated the Charlotte Hornets 105-101 on Thursday, February 19, 2026, in Charlotte, securing a road win that hinged on late execution and a strong closing stretch from Kevin Durant. Houston trailed by as many as 11 points in the first half before gradually pulling level and taking control in the final minutes.

Durant led all scorers with 35 points on 14-of-20 shooting and made two free throws with 3.2 seconds remaining to seal the result. Houston’s scoring by quarter reflected the comeback: the Rockets were outscored 33-24 in the first quarter, then won the second 29-19 to narrow the gap before finishing with a 25-23 edge in the fourth.

Key individual performances and late-game sequence

Houston received additional scoring support from Jabari Smith Jr. (15 points) and 13 points apiece from Alperen Şengün and Reed Sheppard. Şengün also contributed playmaking and defensive activity, while Durant’s two-way impact included three blocks and a steal alongside a low turnover total.

A pivotal moment came midway through the fourth quarter, when Houston briefly created separation. With roughly five minutes left, back-to-back interior scores by Şengün helped push the Rockets to their largest lead of the night at 95-84. Charlotte responded with perimeter shooting down the stretch to keep the game within one possession.

In the closing sequence, Charlotte’s Kon Knueppel knocked down multiple late three-pointers, including one that cut the margin to 103-101 with six seconds to play. Charlotte then fouled, and Durant converted at the line to restore a four-point cushion and effectively end the comeback attempt.

Hornets’ contributions and efficiency challenges

Charlotte was led by Grant Williams with 20 points. Brandon Miller added 17 points but struggled from long range, finishing 1-for-12 on three-point attempts. LaMelo Ball posted 11 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists one day after being involved in a two-car crash in downtown Charlotte; he played and logged a complete stat line but did not lead a late scoring surge.

What the result means next on the schedule

The win improved Houston to 34-20 overall and reinforced the club’s ability to execute in a close road environment following the All-Star break. Charlotte fell to 26-30.

• Houston’s next game is at the New York Knicks on Saturday, February 21, 2026.

• Charlotte’s next game is at home Friday, February 20, 2026, against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Final score: Rockets 105, Hornets 101 — a four-point game defined by late free throws, shot-making, and a narrow margin for error.