The Houston Rockets edged the Indiana Pacers 118-114 in an NBA matchup, pulling out a four-point win behind a dominant night from Alperen Şengün. Houston matched Indiana’s overall shooting efficiency (both teams finished at 51% from the field), but the Rockets created separation by controlling the glass, finishing with a 56-33 rebounding advantage. Indiana’s offense was sharp and connected throughout, piling up 33 assists on 31 made field goals while hitting 12 three-pointers on 26 attempts. Pascal Siakam led the Pacers with 27 points, and Bennedict Mathurin added 25 to keep Indiana within striking distance. Aaron Nesmith chipped in 17 points as the Pacers continued to generate quality looks through ball movement and perimeter shot-making. Houston countered with interior production and second-chance opportunities, leaning on Şengün’s 39-point performance as the focal point of the attack. Jabari Smith Jr. contributed 19 points, and while the Rockets made only 7 threes on 22 attempts, their ability to win possessions with rebounds and convert inside proved decisive in a tight finish. Going forward, the result underscores Houston’s formula when its frontcourt controls the paint and the boards, even without a big three-point night. For Indiana, the offensive execution and assist totals were strong indicators, but the Pacers will look to shore up rebounding and defensive possessions to avoid giving opponents extra chances in close games.