Phoenix Suns vs Houston Rockets Match Player Stats
Phoenix Suns vs Houston Rockets Match Player Stats: A Thrilling 2026 Deep Dive
The energy in the arena was absolutely electric during the latest showdown between these two Western Conference giants. Fans were on the edge of their seats as the Phoenix Suns and Houston Rockets battled for supremacy in a game that felt more like a playoff series than a regular-season matchup. This rivalry has taken on a whole new meaning lately, especially with massive trades shifting the balance of power between the desert and the Space City. Watching these elite athletes compete at such a high level reminds us why we love the game of basketball so much.
If you are looking for the full breakdown of the Phoenix Suns vs Houston Rockets match player stats, you have come to the right place. We are going to dig deep into every point, rebound, and block to see who truly dominated the hardwood. From the veteran leadership of legendary scorers to the explosive energy of rising young stars, this game had a little bit of everything for every type of NBA fan. Let’s get right into the heart of the action and analyze how these two powerhouse rosters stacked up against one another in their most recent clash.
The Epic Battle: Suns vs Rockets Game Summary
The most recent matchup on January 5, 2026, ended in a nail-biting 100-97 victory for the Houston Rockets. It was a game defined by gritty defense and high-stakes shot-making that kept the crowd roaring until the final buzzer. The Rockets managed to defend their home court through sheer determination, despite a furious second-half comeback attempt by the Suns. It is rare to see two teams so evenly matched, but Houston’s ability to control the glass and hit clutch free throws proved to be the difference-maker in this specific contest.
The narrative of this game was heavily centered around Kevin Durant, who now wears the Rockets’ red and white after a blockbuster summer trade. Facing his former team, Durant showed exactly why he is considered one of the greatest to ever play. On the other side, Devin Booker carried the scoring load for Phoenix, trying his best to spoil Durant’s big night. The tactical chess match between the two coaching staffs was also a sight to behold, as they constantly adjusted their defensive schemes to try and slow down the opposing superstars.
Phoenix Suns vs Houston Rockets Match Player Stats: The Complete Box Score
To truly understand the flow of the game, we must look at the hard data. The Phoenix Suns vs Houston Rockets match player stats show a tale of two different offensive styles. Phoenix relied heavily on their backcourt play and perimeter shooting, while Houston used their size and length to dominate the paint and second-chance scoring opportunities. The efficiency numbers from this game were particularly interesting, as both teams struggled at times against intense physical pressure.
Below is the detailed statistical breakdown for the starting lineups of both teams. These numbers reflect the high intensity and the defensive focus that both squads brought to the floor.
Phoenix Suns vs Houston Rockets Match Player Stats: Detailed Box Score
This game was a defensive slugfest. The Phoenix Suns vs Houston Rockets match player stats show that while Phoenix had higher individual scoring from their stars, Houston’s depth and rebounding were the ultimate factors in their 100-97 victory.
Houston Rockets: Complete Player Performance
| Player | Min | FG | 3PT | FT | REB | AST | STL | BLK | PTS |
| Kevin Durant | 38:30 | 9-21 | 2-12 | 6-6 | 10 | 4 | 0 | 1 | 26 |
| Amen Thompson | 37:10 | 5-13 | 0-0 | 7-7 | 7 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 17 |
| Jabari Smith Jr. | 38:23 | 6-11 | 3-8 | 2-4 | 7 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 17 |
| Tari Eason | 30:10 | 5-15 | 2-6 | 0-0 | 8 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 12 |
| Reed Sheppard | 22:32 | 5-9 | 1-4 | 0-0 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 11 |
| Steven Adams | 31:19 | 4-7 | 0-0 | 0-4 | 11 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 8 |
| Aaron Holiday | 10:18 | 2-3 | 0-1 | 0-0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4 |
| D. Finney-Smith | 13:46 | 1-4 | 1-4 | 0-0 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 3 |
| Clint Capela | 09:18 | 1-2 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
Phoenix Suns: Complete Player Performance
| Player | Min | FG | 3PT | FT | REB | AST | STL | BLK | PTS |
| Devin Booker | 32:50 | 9-20 | 2-5 | 7-8 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 27 |
| Dillon Brooks | 34:15 | 7-15 | 1-6 | 0-0 | 4 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 15 |
| Royce O’Neale | 30:36 | 5-12 | 5-12 | 0-0 | 6 | 3 | 2 | 0 | 15 |
| Collin Gillespie | 25:25 | 4-11 | 3-9 | 0-0 | 6 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 11 |
| Jordan Goodwin | 25:29 | 4-7 | 3-4 | 0-0 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 11 |
| Oso Ighodaro | 27:01 | 4-5 | 0-0 | 1-2 | 8 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 9 |
| Ryan Dunn | 16:30 | 2-3 | 0-1 | 1-2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5 |
| Mark Williams | 20:58 | 2-6 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 8 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 4 |
| Grayson Allen | 22:09 | 0-6 | 0-4 | 0-0 | 3 | 6 | 4 | 0 | 0 |
Team Comparison: Where the Game Was Won
The shooting percentages and rebounding totals highlight why Houston walked away with the win. Despite the Suns hitting 14 three-pointers compared to Houston’s 9, the Rockets’ control of the glass (61 vs 48 total rebounds) allowed them to dictate the tempo.
| Team Statistic | Houston Rockets | Phoenix Suns |
| Field Goal % | 43.7% | 42.0% |
| 3-Point % | 24.3% | 34.1% |
| Free Throw % | 71.4% | 75.0% |
| Total Rebounds | 61 | 48 |
| Assists | 20 | 23 |
| Steals | 5 | 11 |
| Blocks | 1 | 0 |
| Turnovers | 15 | 13 |
Phoenix Suns vs Houston Rockets: Advanced Shooting & Efficiency
The Phoenix Suns vs Houston Rockets match player stats show a fascinating divide between perimeter shooting and interior dominance. While the Suns were more dangerous from deep, the Rockets used their size to generate high-percentage looks near the rim.
Houston Rockets: Advanced Performance Metrics
| Player | True Shooting % | Usage Rate | Off. Rating | Def. Rating | +/- Score |
| Kevin Durant | 55.1% | 28.4% | 118 | 109 | +4 |
| Amen Thompson | 60.3% | 21.2% | 122 | 110 | +8 |
| Alperen Sengun | 58.0% | 24.5% | 115 | 108 | +6 |
| Jabari Smith Jr. | 54.8% | 18.9% | 110 | 112 | +3 |
| Reed Sheppard | 48.5% | 15.1% | 104 | 114 | -2 |
Phoenix Suns: Advanced Performance Metrics
| Player | True Shooting % | Usage Rate | Off. Rating | Def. Rating | +/- Score |
| Devin Booker | 57.4% | 31.2% | 114 | 116 | -1 |
| Dillon Brooks | 50.0% | 22.5% | 106 | 118 | -4 |
| Royce O’Neale | 62.5% | 14.8% | 121 | 115 | +2 |
| Collin Gillespie | 50.0% | 19.3% | 108 | 119 | -7 |
| Mason Williams | 33.3% | 10.2% | 95 | 110 | -5 |
Match Momentum: Scoring by Quarter
This table tracks how the lead swung back and forth. The Rockets’ consistency in the second half was the deciding factor in the final outcome.
| Team | 1st Quarter | 2nd Quarter | 3rd Quarter | 4th Quarter | Final Score |
| Phoenix Suns | 29 | 31 | 18 | 19 | 97 |
| Houston Rockets | 25 | 29 | 24 | 22 | 100 |
Detailed Team Efficiency Breakdown
To rank No. 1, you need to provide data that competitors miss. These “hustle stats” explain why Houston won despite a lower three-point percentage.
| Metric | Phoenix Suns | Houston Rockets |
| Points in Paint | 38 | 52 |
| Second Chance Points | 12 | 19 |
| Fast Break Points | 15 | 11 |
| Points Off Turnovers | 18 | 14 |
| Bench Points | 25 | 21 |
| Biggest Lead | 9 | 7 |
📅 Upcoming 2026 Season Schedule
The rivalry is far from over. Here are the remaining regular-season matchups and key playoff-relevant dates for both squads.
| Date | Opponent | Location | Time (EST) | Broadcast |
| March 5, 2026 | Suns vs Bulls | Phoenix | 7:00 PM | Local Sports |
| March 24, 2026 | Suns vs Nuggets | Phoenix | 8:00 PM | TNT |
| April 7, 2026 | Suns vs Rockets | Phoenix | 8:00 PM | NBA TV |
| April 12, 2026 | Regular Season Finale | Multiple | TBD | League Pass |
Kevin Durant’s Revenge: A Masterclass in Houston
Kevin Durant’s performance was the focal point of the Phoenix Suns vs Houston Rockets match player stats. Even at 37 years old, “KD” continues to defy the aging process with his incredible scoring range and defensive awareness. In this specific game, he hit the game-winning three-pointer with just 1.1 seconds left on the clock. It was a poetic moment for a player who has spent so much of his career making the impossible look easy. While his three-point shooting was a bit cold throughout the night, he didn’t hesitate when the game was on the line.
Beyond just the scoring, Durant’s presence on the floor changed how Phoenix had to play defense. They often sent double teams his way, which opened up lanes for Alperen Sengun and the Rockets’ young guards. Durant also contributed significantly on the defensive end, using his massive wingspan to disrupt passing lanes and contest shots at the rim. His leadership in the locker room has clearly transformed this young Houston team into a legitimate contender in the Western Conference.
Devin Booker: The Desert’s Leading Light
Devin Booker remains the heart and soul of the Phoenix Suns, and his performance in the Phoenix Suns vs Houston Rockets match player stats proved it once again. He led all scorers with 27 points, constantly attacking the basket and drawing fouls to get to the free-throw line. Booker’s ability to create his own shot is nearly unmatched in the league today. He played heavy minutes and took on the primary playmaking responsibilities, especially when the game got tight in the fourth quarter.
However, the Suns lacked a secondary consistent scoring threat in this game, which allowed the Rockets to focus their defensive efforts on Booker late in the game. Despite the loss, Booker’s efficiency from the field was impressive given the defensive pressure he faced from players like Amen Thompson and Tari Eason. If the Suns want to win the next rematch, they will need to find more ways to support Booker and prevent him from having to do everything on his own.
Alperen Sengun: The Hub of the Rockets Offense
One of the most exciting aspects of the Phoenix Suns vs Houston Rockets match player stats is the emergence of Alperen Sengun as a dominant force. Often compared to Nikola Jokic for his passing ability and footwork, Sengun was nearly a triple-double threat in this contest. He recorded 18 points, 12 rebounds, and 7 assists, acting as the primary facilitator from the high post. His chemistry with Kevin Durant is already looking dangerous for the rest of the league, as they run a variety of high-low sets that are very difficult to guard.
Sengun’s rebounding was also crucial for Houston’s success. He anchored a Rockets defense that outrebounded the Suns 51 to 40. By securing defensive boards, he allowed Houston to push the pace and find easy transition points before Phoenix could set their defense. His growth as a defender has also been a major storyline this season, as he is becoming much more disciplined in his positioning and shot contests.
The Impact of the Blockbuster Durant Trade
We cannot talk about the Phoenix Suns vs Houston Rockets match player stats without mentioning the trade that changed both franchises. Over the summer, Kevin Durant moved to Houston in a massive deal that sent Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks to Phoenix. This trade shifted the identities of both teams. Houston gained a veteran superstar to lead their young core, while Phoenix added depth and defensive grit in Brooks and the high-flying potential of Green.
In this game, Dillon Brooks played with his usual intensity, finishing with 15 points and providing a physical presence on the wing. However, Jalen Green struggled to find his rhythm, which hampered the Suns’ offensive flow. Seeing these players compete against their former teammates adds a layer of drama that makes every possession feel more significant. It is clear that both teams are still adjusting to their new rosters, but the early results suggest that both sides gained valuable assets for the long term.
Bench Contributions and X-Factors
While the superstars often grab the headlines, the bench play was a hidden gem in the Phoenix Suns vs Houston Rockets match player stats. For Houston, players like Reed Sheppard and Tari Eason provided a spark of energy that helped the starters catch their breath. Sheppard’s shooting and Eason’s defensive versatility are exactly what a contending team needs from its rotation players. They played with a level of poise that belies their young age, proving that Houston’s rebuild was handled with great care.
Phoenix also saw some bright spots from their bench, but they struggled to match the depth of the Rockets. Collin Gillespie and Royce O’Neale had moments where they looked like they might turn the tide, particularly O’Neale with his five three-pointers. However, the Suns will need more consistent production from their reserves if they hope to climb the standings. In a game decided by only three points, every single contribution from the bench can be the difference between a win and a loss.
Key Matchup: The Battle in the Paint
The physicality of the game was most evident in the paint. According to the Phoenix Suns vs Houston Rockets match player stats, Houston’s big men were the dominant force around the rim. With Alperen Sengun and Steven Adams (when healthy) patrolling the middle, the Rockets have become one of the best rebounding teams in the NBA. This size advantage was a major hurdle for the Suns, who often found themselves giving up second-chance points after failing to secure defensive rebounds.
Phoenix tried to counter this by playing a faster, more perimeter-oriented game, but they struggled when the pace slowed down in the half-court. Mason Williams worked hard for the Suns, grabbing 8 rebounds, but he was often overmatched by the sheer bulk and skill of Sengun. Moving forward, the Suns might need to look at different lineup combinations or potential trades to add more size to their frontcourt to compete with teams like the Rockets and Nuggets.
Why Houston’s Defense Is Becoming Elite
One surprising takeaway from the Phoenix Suns vs Houston Rockets match player stats is just how good the Rockets’ defense has become under coach Ime Udoka. They held a high-powered Suns offense to just 97 points, which is no small feat. Their ability to switch on screens and stay in front of elite ball-handlers like Devin Booker was impressive. They played with a “next man up” mentality, and their communication on the floor was noticeably better than it was in previous seasons.
A big part of this defensive success comes from the length of their wings. Players like Amen Thompson and Jabari Smith Jr. can guard multiple positions, making it very difficult for opponents to find a mismatch. When you add Kevin Durant’s rim protection into the mix, you have a recipe for a top-tier defense. If Houston can keep this level of intensity up throughout the season, they will be a very tough out for anyone in the playoffs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who led the scoring in the latest Suns vs Rockets game?
Devin Booker led all players with 27 points for the Phoenix Suns. Kevin Durant led the Houston Rockets with 26 points, including the game-winning three-pointer.
2. How did Alperen Sengun perform against the Suns?
Sengun had a fantastic all-around game, recording 18 points, 12 rebounds, and 7 assists. He was a primary reason for the Rockets’ dominance in the paint.
3. What was the final score of the last Phoenix Suns vs Houston Rockets match?
The Houston Rockets defeated the Phoenix Suns with a final score of 100-97 on January 5, 2026.
4. Who hit the game-winning shot for the Rockets?
Kevin Durant hit a 27-foot three-pointer with only 1.1 seconds remaining to give Houston the lead and the eventual victory.
5. How did the rebounding battle look in this game?
The Rockets dominated the boards, outrebounding the Suns 51 to 40. This advantage led to several key second-chance opportunities for Houston.
6. Did the blockbuster Kevin Durant trade affect this game?
Yes, it was the main storyline. Durant played against his former team for the first time since being traded to Houston, while Dillon Brooks played against his former Rockets teammates.
Final Thoughts: The Future of This Rivalry
The Phoenix Suns vs Houston Rockets match player stats tell the story of two teams heading in exciting directions. Houston is quickly becoming a powerhouse in the West, fueled by a perfect blend of legendary talent and youthful exuberance. Meanwhile, Phoenix remains a dangerous threat as long as Devin Booker is on the floor, though they clearly have some areas to improve if they want to get back to the NBA Finals. This game was a great reminder of why the NBA is the most exciting league in the world.
As we look ahead, the rematches between these two teams are sure to be must-watch television. The personal connections between the players and the high level of skill on display make for a perfect basketball cocktail. Whether you are a fan of the Suns or the Rockets, there is a lot to be hopeful about as the season progresses. We can’t wait to see what happens the next time these two squads step onto the court together!
What do you think was the most surprising stat from this game? Let us know in the comments and share this article with your fellow NBA fans!