The Houston Rockets defeated the San Antonio Spurs 114–110 on October 23, 2026, in a thrilling NBA matchup that came down to a decisive defensive play by Amen Thompson. With the Spurs chasing a potential game-tying basket, Thompson delivered a spectacular block on Victor Wembanyama with approximately 0.6 seconds remaining, helping Houston secure its second consecutive victory of the season.
The dramatic finish highlighted Thompson’s athleticism and defensive instincts while overshadowing an impressive individual performance from Wembanyama. Houston’s Alperen Sengun led all scorers with 29 points, while Kevin Durant and Thompson each contributed 20 points to the winning effort.
The victory improved the Rockets’ record to 2–0 in the 2026–27 NBA regular season, while San Antonio fell to 0–2.
Houston Rockets vs. San Antonio Spurs: Final Score
| Game Detail | Result |
| Houston Rockets | 114 points |
| San Antonio Spurs | 110 points |
| Winning team | Houston Rockets |
| Venue | Moody Center, Austin, Texas |
| Game date | October 23, 2026 |
| Rockets’ record | 2–0 |
| Spurs’ record | 0–2 |
Amen Thompson Denies Wembanyama in the Final Seconds
The defining moment arrived in the closing seconds when San Antonio needed a basket to draw level. Victor Wembanyama attempted a layup near the rim, looking to give the Spurs another opportunity to force overtime.
Thompson reacted quickly, timed his jump and blocked the attempt with approximately 0.6 seconds left on the clock. Despite Wembanyama’s considerable height advantage, Thompson managed to prevent the shot from reaching the basket.
The defensive stop proved crucial. Houston retained its lead, and Fred VanVleet subsequently converted two free throws to establish the final 114–110 scoreline.
The play demonstrated why Thompson’s defensive versatility is valuable to Houston. His speed, timing and ability to challenge taller opponents made the difference when the game was on the line.
Alperen Sengun Leads All Scorers With 29 Points
Alperen Sengun delivered Houston’s strongest offensive performance, finishing with 29 points, seven rebounds and seven assists.
The Rockets relied on his scoring and playmaking throughout the contest, particularly when San Antonio threatened to close the gap. Sengun was especially effective in the fourth quarter, scoring 14 points to help Houston withstand the Spurs’ comeback attempts.
His ability to create opportunities near the basket and contribute as a passer provided Houston with an important offensive advantage.
Victor Wembanyama Records 25 Points and 13 Rebounds
Wembanyama finished with 25 points, 13 rebounds and two blocks for San Antonio. His performance demonstrated his ability to influence the game at both ends of the floor, even though the Spurs ultimately came up short.
The young star helped San Antonio remain competitive and provided a strong scoring presence in the paint. However, his final attempt to tie the game was stopped by Thompson, leaving the Spurs without another opportunity to equalise.
Despite the defeat, Wembanyama’s statistical performance offered encouraging signs for San Antonio as the team looks to build momentum early in the season.
Kevin Durant and Amen Thompson Add 20 Points Each
Kevin Durant contributed 20 points, seven rebounds and six assists for Houston. His experience and scoring ability proved important during the closing stages, including a critical three-pointer with 1:34 remaining.
Thompson also finished with 20 points, alongside 10 rebounds, four assists, two steals and two blocks. His contribution extended well beyond the final defensive play, as he remained productive on both ends of the court.
For the Rockets, having multiple players capable of influencing the game offensively and defensively was a major factor in securing the win.
Dylan Harper Keeps San Antonio in the Contest
Dylan Harper scored 20 points for the Spurs, helping his team remain within striking distance during the fourth quarter.
His late driving dunk brought San Antonio within two points with 46 seconds remaining, increasing the pressure on Houston. The Rockets nevertheless managed to protect their advantage and survived the final push.
Harper’s scoring was one of the positives for San Antonio, although the team could not convert its late opportunities into a victory.
Four Key Moments That Decided the Game
- Sengun’s Fourth-Quarter Scoring
Sengun scored 14 points in the final period, helping Houston respond whenever the Spurs threatened to take control. His offensive production kept the Rockets ahead during the most important stretch of the game.
- Durant’s Timely Three-Pointer
Durant hit a crucial three-pointer with 1:34 remaining, extending Houston’s advantage at a critical stage. The basket gave the Rockets some breathing room before San Antonio mounted another challenge.
- Thompson’s Game-Saving Block
The most memorable moment came when Thompson rejected Wembanyama’s potential game-tying layup with approximately 0.6 seconds left. The block prevented San Antonio from levelling the score and became the defining play of the contest.
- Houston’s Advantage at the Free-Throw Line
The Rockets converted 28 of 31 free throws, while the Spurs made 18 of 25. Houston’s 10-point advantage at the free-throw line was a significant statistical difference in a game decided by four points.
What the Result Means for Both Teams
Houston’s 2–0 start gives the Rockets early momentum as they look to establish themselves as contenders in the Western Conference. Sengun’s scoring, Durant’s experience and Thompson’s defensive contributions provide several reasons for optimism.
San Antonio, meanwhile, dropped to 0–2 despite Wembanyama’s strong individual performance. The Spurs showed that they could compete throughout the game, but their inability to convert the final opportunity proved costly.
The matchup also highlighted the importance of execution in close games. A single defensive play or missed scoring opportunity can determine the outcome when teams are separated by only a few points.
Final Result: Rockets Hold Off Spurs
The Houston Rockets secured a 114–110 victory over the San Antonio Spurs in a contest featuring strong individual performances and a dramatic finish.
Sengun led all scorers with 29 points, Wembanyama recorded 25 points and 13 rebounds, and Durant and Thompson added 20 points apiece. However, Thompson’s late block on Wembanyama stood out as the decisive moment.
Houston improved to 2–0, while San Antonio fell to 0–2. For the Rockets, the win provided an early-season boost; for the Spurs, it offered valuable lessons about finishing close games.
Final score: Houston Rockets 114, San Antonio Spurs 110.
Editorial note: Player statistics, game details and the precise final sequence should be checked against the official NBA box score before publication.
