Houston Rockets Demolish Memphis Grizzlies 124-109 in Statement Victory

The FedExForum crowd of 15,119 came expecting fireworks on November 5th, but what they witnessed was pure basketball artistry from the Houston Rockets. In a performance that felt more like a masterclass than a regular-season game, the Rockets dismantled the Memphis Grizzlies 124-109, extending their winning streak to five games and sending a clear message to the rest of the league.

Amen Thompson’s Breakout Performance Steals the Show

Sometimes, you witness a moment when a young player announces himself to the basketball world. That moment came Wednesday night in Memphis when Amen Thompson put together the kind of performance that makes coaches smile and scouts frantically scribble notes. The third-year guard exploded for 28 points, grabbed 10 rebounds, and dished out 7 assists while swiping 2 steals in what can only be described as a complete basketball showcase.

Thompson’s twin brother was supposed to be the more polished prospect coming out of Overtime Elite, but Amen has been steadily building his case as the superior talent. Against Memphis, he looked like a man playing among boys, attacking the rim with ferocity and making plays that had even the home crowd rising to their feet in appreciation.

“That’s what we preach. That’s what we practice. Unselfishness,” said Josh Okogie after the game, but he could have easily been describing Thompson’s all-around brilliance. This wasn’t just about individual statistics – it was about a young player understanding his role within a championship-caliber system.

Alperen Sengun Continues His All-Star Campaign

While Thompson grabbed the headlines, Alperen Sengun quietly put together another monster performance that should have NBA executives around the league taking notice. The Turkish center finished with 20 points and a ridiculous 16 rebounds, adding 7 assists for good measure. Sengun has been the steady heartbeat of this Houston Rockets team, and his ability to impact winning in multiple ways was on full display.

Watching Sengun operate in the post feels like watching a throwback to an era when centers were expected to be complete players. His court vision rivals that of elite point guards, and his rebounding prowess gives the Rockets second-chance opportunities that often prove decisive in tight games.

Houston Rockets Dominate from the Opening Tip

The game was effectively decided in the opening quarter when the Houston Rockets came out shooting 56% from the field while Memphis struggled to find any rhythm, converting just 25% of their attempts. It’s one thing to have an off night; it’s another to watch an opponent systematically dismantle your game plan with precision shooting and relentless defensive pressure.

The turning point came midway through the third quarter when the Rockets unleashed a devastating 24-9 run that stretched their lead to 21 points. Memphis never recovered from that haymaker, and what had been a competitive game suddenly looked like a mismatch between professionals and amateurs.

Depth and Balance Fuel Championship Hopes

Championship teams win with depth, and the Houston Rockets showcased that principle against Memphis. Jabari Smith Jr. chipped in 16 points, Tari Eason matched that total coming off the bench, and Josh Okogie added 13 points in what amounted to a complete team effort. When your fifth-leading scorer drops double digits, you know you’re dealing with a special group.

The Rockets finished the night shooting 47.5% from the field and an impressive 43.3% from three-point range. Those numbers don’t happen by accident – they’re the result of ball movement, player development, and a coaching staff that has maximized every talent on the roster.

Memphis Grizzlies Continue Troubling Slide

For Memphis, this loss represented their fourth straight defeat and highlighted the growing pains under first-year head coach Tuomas Iisalo. The Grizzlies have been decimated by injuries to key players, including starting center Zach Edey, bench contributors Scotty Pippen Jr., and Ty Jerome. When you’re missing that much talent, every game becomes an uphill battle.

The Grizzlies managed just 38.2% shooting from the field and couldn’t generate the offensive rhythm needed to keep pace with a red-hot Houston Rockets squad. Basketball is often about timing, and right now, nothing seems to be falling Memphis’s way.

Championship Implications for Houston

This victory wasn’t just another regular-season win – it was a statement. The Houston Rockets are averaging 124.8 points per game while shooting over 43% from three-point range. Those are the numbers of a team that believes it can compete with anyone in the Western Conference.

With Thompson emerging as a legitimate two-way threat and Sengun establishing himself as one of the league’s most complete big men, the Houston Rockets appear to have all the pieces necessary for a deep playoff run. Games like this prove they’re ready to take that next step.