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00:00and Rockets basketball, your front row seat to the Rockets and Astros.
00:21From the Toyota Center here in Houston, SCHN presents Houston Rockets basketball.
00:27As tonight, the 47-29 Rockets wrap up this homestand looking for a fifth straight win as they match up
00:33with the 21-56 Utah Jazz.
00:36And here's a look at the standings out west as things continue to get more and more interesting by the
00:42day,
00:42especially with the Luka hamstring injury.
00:45Three through six is going to be a fun battle the rest of the way for playoff seating in the
00:52Western Conference.
00:53Welcome back to Toyota Center One and All. I'm Craig. He's Ryan. Vanessa will be alongside here shortly.
00:59But one thing we do know, Ryan, we have no idea where the Rockets are going to finish up in
01:02the West.
01:02But one piece of business was decided last night. Phoenix got beat by Charlotte.
01:06So the Rockets have clinched a playoff berth.
01:09But again, there is so much for this Rockets team to play for between now and the end of the
01:12regular season.
01:12There is. And Craig, when we spoke about the topic, you know, my mindset from being in the locker room
01:17was be the best that you can be.
01:19And right now the Houston Rockets are surging at the right time.
01:22And a lot of the strategic errors or maybe chemistry things that they're trying to build seem to be coming
01:28together at the right time.
01:29All right. Let's talk Reed Shepard. Why? Because he had another really big game against the Bucs.
01:33Hit 9-3 as a new career high. And he really has taken huge steps forward this season.
01:39That's huge for the Houston Rockets because here's the thing.
01:43You get Kevin Durant, who has the most gravity in the NBA.
01:46He's doubled more than any player that I've ever seen.
01:49Alfred Chagoon, who also come in as a double team. That means what, Craig? There's going to be open shots.
01:53There's always a space on the floor for a guy who can space the floor.
01:57And for Reed Shepard, those looks are going to be there.
01:59And just imagine between he and Kevin Durant just facing the floor to 25, 26, 28 feet away from the
02:06basket.
02:06And he's spotting up so far away that guys can't recover.
02:09Now the Rockets have won four in a row.
02:12Their offense is once again beginning to click.
02:15And, Ryan, as you just mentioned, the name of the game for this Rockets team is to get into the
02:19best rhythm they can
02:20and stay in that rhythm come playoff time as you take a look at some of the Rockets' numbers in
02:24the last nine games.
02:25Just make it simple, man. They've been able to defend. They've moved the basketball.
02:28And they're gelling. And, again, the team chemistry, the aura has been there.
02:34And, again, it's fun to watch. But they're peaking at the right time.
02:38And we're looking for signs. And they have all been there to be on pace for the playoffs.
02:43Yeah. Assist numbers up. Turnover numbers down.
02:45And, by the way, the Utah Jazz have been hemorrhaging points as of late.
02:49So it could be another big offensive night for the Houston Rockets.
02:52Now, as we all know, it has been a bit of a bumpy ride this season.
02:56Not only for this Rockets team, but for many of its players.
02:59However, I tell you what, Alperin Shingun, well, he's closing in on some history.
03:03And Vanessa will highlight that next when we return.
03:09For life-changing sinus relief.
03:14Welcome back to Houston where the Rockets are getting ready to host the Utah Jazz.
03:18Hi, everybody. I'm Vanessa Richardson.
03:19And it is time for the Jack in the Box courtside report.
03:22Earlier this season, Alperin Shingun told me that he felt like he was in a little bit of a slump.
03:27He felt like he wasn't playing like himself.
03:29And he wanted to be more aggressive.
03:31It's safe to say he has done just that.
03:33Take a look at his season averages.
03:35He's on par for some historical stuff here.
03:38He's on pace to join Giannis Larry Bird, Kevin Garnett, and LeBron James.
03:42And he has been especially consistent since March 18th in particular.
03:47Ime told me, look, Alperin's been able to bounce back after some injuries.
03:50He had about four things lingering.
03:52He came back rejuvenated when he has had some games off.
03:56He's been aggressive on the offensive end.
03:58And Ime Udoka also said Alperin's doing a really good job of kind of just taking what the game gives
04:03him.
04:04Ime said one of his best games was when he had ten points and a bunch of assists and dominated
04:08the glass.
04:08He can do it in so many ways, and his versatility is going to be key for us.
04:13All right, Rockets basketball coming your way.
04:15So he wants to change on SpaceX.com.
04:45It's 8-29 on the road this season.
04:48Let's beat the starting lineup for this one, shall we?
04:51And for the Rockets, you've got Thompson and Rick Sheppard
04:53coming off that big game against the Bucs.
04:55Alfred Schicko, Jamar Smith, Jr., and Kevin Durant.
04:58The Jazz only have 10 guys available.
05:00Probably only going to see eight of them here tonight,
05:01so they'll go a sense of all you can probably do for a 35-point game here.
05:05Against the Rockets, Ace Mealy, who's been terrific since the All-Star break.
05:08Filipowski, Cody Williams, and former Memphis Grizzly John Conchar.
05:13Fourth and final matchup between Houston and Utah this season.
05:17What is the encore performance here in the finale of this homestand for Reed Sheppard?
05:21We'll soon find out after the career-high 9-3s against Milwaukee.
05:25Ryan, it's now time for the keys of the game presented by Toyota.
05:28First off, share the sugar.
05:30Houston has improved drastically, moving the basketball.
05:33Their assist rate's actually up to 67%.
05:36That is a massive increase.
05:38War on the glass. Houston averages 15 hops that repounds a game.
05:42That is their M.O.
05:44That is the way that they play.
05:45That is E-Mate and Doka basketball.
05:47And lastly, no disrespect to Utah.
05:49They're in a different place right now.
05:51And for Houston, it's all about playoff prep.
05:53Being ready, having the proper mindset,
05:55and challenging this group to go out and take care of business,
05:59if you know what I mean, Craig.
06:00Yeah, four straight games.
06:02The Rockets have amassed 30 or more assists.
06:04Utah, one of the league's leading teams,
06:06average almost 30 assists per game at 29 and a half.
06:09But here's Bailey getting terrific since the All-Star break,
06:11and he's called for a walk and a turnover.
06:14The Jazz recent seasons, they've cut down on the turnovers this year,
06:17but in recent seasons, they have not been overly good with their ball security.
06:22And there's a look at Will Hardy, their head coach.
06:26Fourth season as a head coach in Utah,
06:29they should be much better next year.
06:30Shane Goon lost it, gets it back, but it was never deflected.
06:34And so when he came back down with it,
06:36the Rockets returned the favor with a walk and a turnover.
06:40Not the way you want to start as we speak about playoff prep.
06:44And Houston's going to get a number of those opportunities
06:47because they're setting a lot of flares.
06:49That's what Coach Udoko wants in the offense,
06:51and getting underneath those switches,
06:52and the slips have been right there.
06:56Here's Bailey working on Thompson.
06:58Steffen back, freeing himself up, getting a shot off the missing.
07:00If you remember, the Jazz were here in the preseason, Bailey was awesome.
07:04And he's been that good since the All-Star break here.
07:07D3, Reed Shepard's short.
07:09And Williams able to keep Thompson off the glass,
07:12but then Thompson ties him up, and we're going to have a jump ball.
07:15Yeah, and that's the right call.
07:17But we spoke a couple games ago about Amid Thompson's cat-like instincts.
07:23And once he sees the ball, he's not fouling.
07:25And he draws that jump ball for the academy sports and outdoor Super Bowl replay,
07:29but the fun thing about Amid is, in these games, he doesn't turn it off.
07:35He's on or off.
07:36He's getting that consistent type player.
07:39And the tap is won by the Rockets.
07:46And Utah's been hemorrhaging points.
07:48Off one foot, Durant, and there's the first two of the Knights.
07:52Kevin just making the game simple for himself, getting to his sweet spot.
07:55And in a game of dunks and threes, Kevin Durant is the outlier to just about every rule.
08:03Another turnover.
08:04The Jazz are allowing this season over 125 points per game,
08:09the third highest opponent scoring average in NBA history.
08:12They're on pace to have one of the worst defensive seasons of all time,
08:16and they've given up $1.25 or more 43 times this year.
08:19Jabari corner three, and it's 5-0 Houston.
08:22He just saw a little C action, and what that does is it allows Alfred Schengel to be able to
08:27facilitate.
08:28And, you know, if you're caught guarding actions, he can catch and go.
08:31And that time, Jabari called for the foul to reach, and he knew it immediately, as we all did.
08:37And he's like Kyle's game.
08:39He's a tough cover.
08:40As he gets stronger, he develops.
08:42He's going to be even more of a headache.
08:44Got a little bit of spiciness to him.
08:46Utah's going to be healthy at the start of next season,
08:48and they're going to be significantly better.
08:53Sensor ball.
08:53He's so good against the Rockets, but he misses there.
08:56Williams with a rebound comes back out to Bailey.
08:58He's only 19.
09:00Takes Shapari off the dribble and finishes on Shingun at the rim.
09:04The eight-base Bailey's touch is really phenomenal.
09:08He doesn't turn 20 until August the 13th.
09:12He's still a super young 19.
09:14Shingun, that'll count.
09:16No, it will not offensive foul to clear out.
09:19I don't know about that call.
09:23It was, I mean, when we talk about minimal, hold on.
09:27Let's watch this left arm here.
09:30That left arm is there, but we've just never seen a call.
09:34It kept the defender from being able to contest,
09:37but I don't think he was going to be able to contest anyways.
09:39Here's the mid-rank.
09:40Oh, Glass.
09:41I'm not sure.
09:42He did not call Glass, but it still counts for Williams.
09:47Brother of J-Dub.
09:48Yep.
09:49Back to Thompson from Shingun.
09:52He's been so hot from three.
09:54He thought about it.
09:55Now Durant on Filipowski.
10:00Shock block inside of five.
10:02Durant still working with the top of the key.
10:04Now to cutting Jabari.
10:06This is the easiest.
10:07Go dunk it.
10:08Go dunk it.
10:09He could have and should have.
10:12Brilliance.
10:14Hierarchy quarter three.
10:16No.
10:16Tap it.
10:17Out of bounds by Jabari, and the Jazz will still have it.
10:21Don't like the lack of sharpness.
10:23Jabari had a dunk there.
10:25Al P misses the early cut opportunity that he had.
10:29Then the offensive foul.
10:30And I thought those shoes.
10:33He's wearing two different colored sneakers.
10:36Are they like that?
10:38Or are they the same shoe twice that he bought?
10:41I have no idea.
10:42Conchar to Filipowski.
10:45And he misses the contest for Durant.
10:47The rebound for Thompson will come the other way.
10:49Obviously, he's wearing those two shoes that way on purpose.
10:51I don't think he's like absolutely forgotten.
10:53No.
10:54Are they made like that?
10:56Are you saying they're like two different styles
10:58and you decided to mix and match?
10:59Yeah, absolutely.
11:01Maybe Vanessa can find out.
11:02That's a Vanessa question.
11:03No, to me, they look like they're...
11:05Are we at this point already?
11:06Yeah, are we?
11:07Go ahead.
11:08Do you know anything about the kicks?
11:09Typically, you have options where you can mix and match shoes.
11:14I can't speak to that particular one.
11:16Have we ever seen him mix and match his shoes?
11:18I don't think so.
11:18Typically, he does not.
11:19Typically, he does not.
11:20I can confirm that he typically does not mix and match his shoes.
11:22So this is a new thing, we think, for Shingun.
11:26Jumps it into Jabari and has it knocked out of his hands.
11:28Four and a half on this possession here for the Rockets.
11:31Now, it's nice to see Shingun back out there and moving well.
11:34Tweaked his back a little bit during the middle of that Milwaukee game.
11:37He had a great game.
11:38He said afterwards he'll be fine and obviously he looks fine.
11:41Well, we were shut because he's been playing so well.
11:44Oh!
11:45Into Thompson and quickly got it up and in before the expiration of the 24.
11:49You're not supposed to be able to do that.
11:51But, I mean, he was facing the opposite side and spun as he caught the ball and put it in.
11:56Williams challenging Shingun, sweeping over the shoulder and scoring.
12:00Went left, came back right.
12:02He gave Alpi.
12:03And Alpi, that's normally the move Alpi uses to finish inside.
12:06Maybe next time I should switch up the dress shoes, right?
12:09Go do different colors.
12:11That's what the kids would say or do.
12:13All right, we'll see.
12:15Maybe we're a brown one and a black one.
12:18Yeah.
12:19Shingun on Kanchar.
12:21And his headshot is short.
12:24Kanchar is the Alpi stopper.
12:25It's the two stops.
12:29In and out.
12:30Tap no.
12:31Rebound Durant.
12:32Now to Thompson.
12:34Head to Jabari.
12:35Gets deflected.
12:35He still picks up the ball and then ultimately got fouled.
12:40I will repeat your sentiment earlier.
12:43The sharpness doesn't seem all that great to start the game.
12:45It is not there.
12:50So Jabari is going to get some free throws here.
12:52Second foul already on Bailey.
12:54Now the Rockets are all fire as they just punched their ticket to the playoffs.
12:58Officially clinching last night.
13:00SEHN will be your home for all post-game coverage after each game throughout the playoff run.
13:05Tune in to SEHN and SEHN Plus for expert analysis and exclusive access from your hometown broadcast team.
13:12And if you're unaware of this, under the new national TV agreement that the league signed,
13:20teams are no longer allowed to televise any playoff games.
13:24The actual game coverage.
13:25Last year was it in terms of we only got the first round anyway, but that was it.
13:29And we, from now on, it'll all be national TV, but we will have post-game coverage for you right
13:34here on SEHN.
13:35What are you going to wear to your post-game coverage?
13:37What I do for game coverage.
13:41You don't have anything picked out already?
13:43No, it's going to be the same gear.
13:48Sensible over Durant.
13:50And they're going to call a foul.
13:51Was it, I don't think he got him on the arm.
13:54Are they calling that, oh, they're going to say he did get him on the arm.
13:59Houston's been excellent at challenging.
14:05Rockets are thinking about challenging.
14:07They're not going to.
14:08I think it's extremely slight.
14:09I think he gets him on the hand, but is the hand a part of the ball?
14:14Kevin's a basketball savant.
14:15He would know.
14:17And the first free throw is good, and now a word from McCarrum Injury Lawyers.
14:21Every team has a leader you can count on.
14:24Call 281-222-2222.
14:31But remember, you're allowed.
14:33Remember, the Warriors weren't happy with the way the Rockets defended Steph Curry, in part.
14:38And New Rule came in.
14:39I mean, you're allowed to make contact there, but it can't be like an exaggerated as a defender.
14:45Exaggerated follow-through.
14:46Promotion, which I don't think was there.
14:48It possibly was something they could have challenged.
14:50I don't know if they would have necessarily won that challenge.
14:54They elected not to do so.
14:55It's still early in the game, and all three free throws are good.
15:00We're sensible.
15:01There you go.
15:02That time he was able to finish.
15:04How is that not an and one?
15:07A lot of contact on that finish.
15:09It did look like Filipowski got him from behind, but the Rockets have just broke the tie, and we do
15:15have a timeout.
15:45Over the top to Shingun.
15:47Thirty-seven during the 2000-2001 season, he continues.
15:52Obviously, Durant with an elite production level.
15:54Nearly 20 years after being drafted.
15:57Of course, Carl Malone one of the few guys ahead of him on the NBA's all-time scoring list.
16:02The mailman, third all-time.
16:04Durant roughly, I think, just under 4,200 points shy
16:08of Karl Malone for third on the all-time scoring list.
16:12Next up is Kobe Bryant.
16:14You've got Kobe, Karl, Kareem, and then, of course,
16:16LeBron ahead of Kevin Durant.
16:19There's Filipowski off one foot, and he scores.
16:22Again, the Jazz have had a rough season.
16:24Guys have been hurt.
16:26There's been playing a lot of these younger guys
16:28down the stretch, but the minutes and the playing time
16:31and the experience that some of these guys are getting,
16:33it's going to really help out a much-improved Jazz team
16:35next season.
16:36Yeah, you're right.
16:38These are really development years.
16:40You always say no wasted minutes.
16:42No, there's things in practice that you can't simulate.
16:46In the summertime, you can't simulate as Jabari gets fouled,
16:49trying to post it right there.
16:51But game experience and seeing what a player tends to be.
16:55We can talk about, we can watch as much film as you want
16:58about Kevin Durant, but until you get out there and guard him,
17:00you don't understand what you're playing against
17:02and how smart these guys are and the nuances
17:04that happen on the fly.
17:06So here's Durant.
17:09Filipowski defending Durant, able to turn the corner
17:12and get it off.
17:13And he scored the ball, Kevin Durant now with four.
17:15That's where you're really dejected guarding Kevin Durant.
17:18You're thinking about that deadly mid-range pull-up
17:21that he has, and then he can slither by you.
17:23Then you get even closer, you realize he's about seven feet,
17:26seven-one with a long wingspan.
17:28Well, that's why he's fourth on the all-time scoring.
17:32Yes.
17:33Did you realize?
17:34Fifth on the all-time scoring.
17:35There's levels to this, bro.
17:36How about that?
17:37Sensible.
17:38Brought it down, brought it right back up.
17:40He missed.
17:41Rebound to Quinn Capella.
17:42He's checked in, as has Tari Eason.
17:46Shepard.
17:47Williams with the poke.
17:49Williams has been very aggressive defensively.
17:52The best I've seen him look so far.
17:54I thought the pass would play the length of the floor to Kevin Durant for the easy two.
17:58Talk about inexperience.
18:00You leave number five on the all-time list underneath the basket.
18:05So, half a dozen now for KD.
18:09Those are, Craig, those are the fun film sessions when Coach calls you out.
18:12It's like, yeah, that guy with the fifth most points all time.
18:16But you didn't see him.
18:19Another missed three by Utah.
18:21They're 0 for 5.
18:23That was Kennedy Chandler who missed it.
18:26But, Craig, to that note of the play, we did see.
18:30Eason turns it over, backed up the Jazz.
18:32They have numbers four on two.
18:34And the flying slam for Williams.
18:38Houston's really looked for that kick-ahead pass.
18:40They looked to run in transition.
18:43It's ingrained in my mind.
18:44Remember Royale-Ivy kept screaming out, you know,
18:47Stampede, Stampede, and it's paid off for this group.
18:50And the size advantage from Jabari over the smaller Chandler.
18:53But he missed the turnaround.
18:54The quick out that the conch yard goes behind the back to Filipowski.
18:59Oh, couldn't pay it all.
19:00That would have been quite the highlight.
19:02And I think he had to go behind the back.
19:05Pass was right on the money.
19:07Yeah, pass was right on the money.
19:10Capella back to Durant.
19:12Now to Jabari.
19:13This time on Conchar.
19:15And Conchar pokes it away.
19:16And Durant's able to track it down.
19:18Five on the shot clock.
19:20Durant to Jabari.
19:22Had two.
19:23Oh, and he hit the tough contestant three over Conchar.
19:27The Rockets have made some prayers already to start this game.
19:31Here's Chandler switching to the left.
19:33He misses.
19:34Warriors flies in there.
19:35He misses the follow.
19:38Durant to Reed.
19:39Trailing, shooting, scoring.
19:42And again, when Houston gets out in transition, they can play fast.
19:46Those are great looks, and you don't let the defense ever get set.
19:5011-2 is the run for the Rockets.
19:52First three for Reed Shepard.
19:54Houston up by eight.
19:57Monday Night Raw is coming to Toyota Center this Monday.
20:00You can get your tickets at toyotacenter.com.
20:02I'm here with WWE superstar, Javon Evans.
20:05Javon, what can fans expect on Monday?
20:07Come on now.
20:08It's the world to WrestleMania, so you can expect any and everything.
20:11You can expect excitement.
20:13You can expect flips.
20:14You can expect fights.
20:16And you can expect to get bouncy.
20:18You know what I mean?
20:18Just a little bit.
20:19Just a little bit.
20:20What's your favorite part of being a wrestler?
20:22The excitement.
20:23The energy from the fans.
20:24Like, the fans there are something that you would never experience.
20:27You know what I mean?
20:28So the energy for the fans, something I always love and never forget.
20:32You know what?
20:32I think I've heard enough from you.
20:34Know your role and shut your mouth.
20:37That's awful.
20:39Hold on, man.
20:40Hold on.
20:41Monday Night Raw coming to Toyota Center.
20:43Great stuff there, Vanessa.
20:45Love it.
20:46Love it.
20:47Wow.
20:48During our production meeting, I suggest that I come up behind them and hit them with a chair.
20:52But that was, uh, that was, uh, kibosh.
20:55That was a lot better, Quirk.
20:57That was a whole lot better.
20:58Great job, Vanessa.
21:01I'm like, did she just turn heel?
21:03Turn into the interview?
21:05What?
21:05What is going on?
21:08Gotcha.
21:09Hitting three coming out of the timeout.
21:14Vanessa pulling, like, three different rolls here.
21:17Here's Clint.
21:17Oh!
21:18Right down the middle of the paint.
21:21Great, Shepard.
21:23He, we had been asking for that play all season, and Clint just had enough.
21:30That was a, that was a slow developing hammer, but a hammer nevertheless.
21:34Yeah, a little Statue of Liberty.
21:36Over the top to Clint.
21:38Contorted his body, but missed everything.
21:40Yeah, so Vanessa's got pre-happin' post.
21:42She's got reporting duties.
21:43And she's a heel.
21:45And she's a heel.
21:48I do what I can.
21:49No, you're wrong.
21:49I, I, I felt like I couldn't, I felt like I couldn't hit him with a chair.
21:53I thought that was a heel.
21:54I, I, I, I suggested that, but again, that was Kaibot.
21:58Here's Tari.
21:59He's reached Shepard.
22:00He makes the three.
22:02Love that, because look how comfortable Tari looked on that three.
22:06The feet were set.
22:09And, and, and, and again, that's gonna be a huge shot for the Houston Rockets.
22:15Milipowski off the offensive rebound.
22:17Gets it back.
22:24Jazz moved the ball really, really well.
22:27Here's Bailey.
22:28There's the help.
22:30And he's still able to score.
22:32And, and poor spacing by the Jazz.
22:35And they are super excited, and they should be about Ace Bailey in his future.
22:40Oh, he was by far one of the most talented guys in this last draft.
22:44His ability to score it.
22:46Here's Kevin Durant.
22:47He was really well defended, but ultimately did get fouled by Williams.
22:51Cody Williams has been uber aggressive.
22:53Yep.
22:54In this game, going after guys, playing physical.
22:56Okay, give the people what they want.
22:58Klappella in the pocket, takes his time, and just punches the ball over the Utah Jazz.
23:04Watch him stretch out, man.
23:05That is fun to watch.
23:06And, again, if you don't step up, that's the play, and that's the aggression you want from Klappella.
23:11All right, time now for our Taco Bell take.
23:15That's the free throw is good for Kevin Durant.
23:18This season, this is the Rockets and the Jazz.
23:23Remember, last meeting, there were 59 combined fast break points.
23:26Some of the numbers, paint points, fast break points, averaging field goal percentage in this matchup.
23:31Rockets trying to sweep.
23:33I'm at a bigger part.
23:34And take three of four and win the season series for the third consecutive year.
23:40Durant, wow, this is the second.
23:44Don't think he's going to get the 50, 40, 90.
23:47But still does not diminish the incredible season he has had at age 37, as we have illustrated over and
23:55over and over again.
23:56This time, high for the rebound goes Thompson.
23:58Races into the front right now, goes to KD.
24:02Now, try to slip it back underneath to Thompson.
24:04Ended up being a turnover.
24:06Here's Bailey ahead of steam, kind of lost it a little bit, but able to get it back and threw
24:10it back to Chandler.
24:11And Chandler laid it up and in.
24:13And Houston just got too cute on that possession, and it was a four-point swing.
24:17Chandler originally a second-round pick by the Spurs back in 2022.
24:22Freely spent some time in the NBA with the Grizzlies as Durant hits the turnaround.
24:26Now he's with the Utah Jazz.
24:28You see the skill set there of Kevin Durant.
24:33Conchar.
24:34Being able to fade away over the right shoulder.
24:38Filipowski with the finger roll.
24:39Yeah, he's skilled.
24:40And again, you see it.
24:41Not just his shooting, but get past Tarheason, which you rarely see.
24:47And Thompson fouled.
24:49And it drops.
24:50And one.
24:52It seems like down this stretch of Houston playing well,
24:57Amin was kind of in between on some of his drives, and he got with the coaching staff.
25:00And I feel like they just forced him to really get downhill and find contact.
25:05And he's so athletic watching.
25:06He gets the bump.
25:07And, you know, let me figure it out later.
25:09And able to maintain the touch here on this drive.
25:12But that's been a big change.
25:14Instead of second-guessing his shot or saying, hey, you know, forget the jumper.
25:18I'm driving, and this is me at my best.
25:21Well, he is coming off his best month of the season, the month of March.
25:24It was also the best scoring month of his entire career.
25:28He averaged 20 points per game last month.
25:30He has five now.
25:31He is able to complete the three-point play.
25:33Rockets go back up by 10, matching their biggest lead.
25:37And that got deflected.
25:38Holiday went flying out to try to save it.
25:41But it will stay Utah's way again, Aaron Holiday out there, now part of the rotation again.
25:45And he has played well.
25:46Well, he's brought shooting.
25:48You know, for a tough span, Houston struggled to shoot and was turning the ball over a lot.
25:54Just far too much.
25:55And Aaron Holiday has really helped with that.
26:01And that is short.
26:03So the Rockets, there's what, four or five seconds difference we gave at Shot Clock as we wind it down
26:09here in this first quarter.
26:13Rockets trying to win their fifth straight overall, their fifth straight here at Toyota Center.
26:21Durant trying to shake loose into Shingun.
26:24Trying to go down low to Thompson.
26:25Batted, picked up by Tari.
26:26Got it off in time.
26:27And he'll count.
26:29Almost like the low clock helped Tari there.
26:32Just no hesitation again on that shot.
26:35Got to defend here.
26:36Tari's got five closing seconds in the quarter.
26:38Chandler ends up getting fouled.
26:41Now, the Rockets had one to give.
26:42It was a non-shooting foul.
26:44They had one to give.
26:44So, 0.8 to play here in the first quarter.
26:53Going to sub in.
26:55I know it's only 0.8, but get out, P.O.
26:59Go defense.
27:00One more perimeter.
27:03And, yeah, I think you can get a shot off, but it'd be pretty tough.
27:07Catch and shoot opportunity.
27:08No slips.
27:09You don't want to give up any layups.
27:12Chandler to Bailey.
27:14And that'll do it.
27:15So, this game was tied at 11.
27:17And the Rockets were able to close out that first quarter on a 23-11 run.
27:23They lead by 12.
27:24After 12, the Rockets are 13-20 from before.
27:28Four of five from three.
27:31And, again, trying to take another season series from the Utah Jazz.
27:42Xfinity, including the three that Reid made in the first quarter.
27:44He's made 212 of them this season.
27:48And here's a list of the guys in the league with 200 or more made threes and 100 or more
27:53steals.
27:54Reid Shepard.
27:55Dante DiPincento.
27:56The now-injured Luka Doncic.
27:58Tyrese Maxey, who we'll see here in a couple of days with the Sixers in town.
28:01And Donovan Mitchell is a pretty good company there for Reid Shepard.
28:06He's also closing in on Eric Gordon for the 10th most made threes in a single season in franchise history.
28:14Ooh, that three goes down.
28:16Good looking stroke there from Bailey.
28:17But not a great sign.
28:19You're starting to see these turnovers come back.
28:22Sheetway was able to stand up.
28:25Alpi inside.
28:26That was a duck in play.
28:27But Sheetway is an iron wall, man.
28:30It's a stomp.
28:31Highly decorated college player.
28:33Yes.
28:33Yet to find any footing, though, at the NBA level.
28:37And the Jazz are going to get it back.
28:40Kentucky guy.
28:42West Virginia.
28:45West Virginia.
28:49Since it's National Play of the Year as he dunks it down, two-time consensus first-team All-American.
28:56Has had a lot of success in the G League as well, but just has not found any footing so
29:02far at this level.
29:08So Utah with a good start to the quarter.
29:10They dump it down to Shin Goom.
29:11Working on the Chandler now.
29:13They'll go to Emend Thompson.
29:14And some contact and ultimately a foul from behind on Bailey.
29:18So Emend will go back to the free throw line.
29:24So Rockets fans, get ready because Houston Rockets Forever Red memberships are on sale today.
29:28As a Forever Red member, you'll get priority access to the biggest games, exclusive team events, and member-only perks
29:34all season at Toyota Center.
29:36It takes all of us all season long to miss a moment.
29:39Be there for every moment.
29:40As the Rockets continue their rise, visit Rockets.com to learn more and secure your seats.
29:45This is free throw there.
29:47And I like that action.
29:48You get a double flood, one underneath the defense, one to the elbow when Alpy gets the ball.
30:00Well, six now for Thompson.
30:03Rockets lead by eight, out shooting Utah 62% to 38%.
30:08Utah just two of 13 from a three.
30:11It feels like this game, the margin of the lead for usage should be bigger than it is.
30:16And there is Sheetway again.
30:17Very good rebound.
30:18If it threw it back and played through with the wrong team.
30:22Tari Eason draws a crowd, finds Jabari's open.
30:24Corner three is up and long.
30:26It's a good one attack to Tari.
30:28Yeah, pretty play there.
30:30And again, Alpy's footwork and awareness to be able to operate in a tight space.
30:37Very soft touch.
30:40Chandler.
30:41And ultimately sets the ball.
30:42Got hip-checked and fouled out of bounds by Aaron Holiday.
30:46Yeah, this is a play from Aaron Holiday.
30:48But watch Alpy times.
30:50It's not only am I getting the rebound.
30:52I want the assist and softly puts it right in the hands of Tari Eason.
30:57But again, those aren't normal plays that you see.
31:01Shingun on pace to once again lead the Rockets in rebounds and assists.
31:06Off the hands of Sheetway.
31:09Another Jazz turnover there.
31:11Fifth.
31:12Here's Shingun.
31:13He takes it.
31:13He's open.
31:14Short on the three.
31:16Rebound tracked down by Aaron Holiday.
31:18Shingun now 10 of his last 19 for the three-point line.
31:21Here's a man, Thompson.
31:22He throws it in.
31:23And again, the hesitation is really gone for a man on those drives.
31:27And easily could have been an animal in there.
31:30Thompson now with eight.
31:34Little hopskips lean.
31:37Score for Sensible.
31:38Yes, and Decel.
31:41Got a foul on Utah.
31:44Going to call it on Chandler.
31:47Chandler plays hard, too.
31:49Gives him the credit.
31:50But look at him in Thompson here.
31:51He's going to slip this.
31:53All right, get behind the defense and watch him put the ball down.
31:56Play strong and be athletic.
32:00Chandler's got two, 9.32 to go in the half.
32:04Tari Eason has come out.
32:05Josh McCogie has come on.
32:11Again, it's about getting into a rhythm, staying in a rhythm.
32:14The best rhythm they can become playoff time.
32:16And ultimately, again, finding a 9, maybe 10-man rotation that, although in playoffs, you don't necessarily go that deep.
32:23But a rotation for E-May that he can trust when their season is going to be on the line
32:28in the playoffs start.
32:29And I'll be honest, in games like this, Houston's got to be much better at taking care of business, you
32:35know.
32:35But halfway through the third quarter, you shouldn't be seeing Alprin Shingun or Kevin Durant.
32:40Oh, drop, step, and dunk.
32:42Yeah, there's no help.
32:43And you talked about something you can't simulate, and Alprin Shingun's spin move was one of them.
32:50Pretty move and finish for Alprin Shingun.
32:52I like how he sells his eyes and head a part of that fake.
32:56Shibwe, way too strong.
32:59He's a strong guy.
33:00Here's Jabari.
33:01He has it stripped by Bailey.
33:03Rockets have it with 18 on the possession.
33:06Bailey's got some Atlanta ties.
33:07Having fun with Jabari.
33:08But look at this.
33:09It's the eyes.
33:10Now the spin comes there with Shibwe, and he gets behind him so fast.
33:14There's absolutely no help, man.
33:16And that's one of the most unguardable moves in the NBA.
33:21Now doubled.
33:22Jabari, the skip.
33:24Holiday working on Chandler.
33:26Lowers the shoulder.
33:27Comes back across to Okoge.
33:29Gotta go.
33:29Goes behind the back to Holiday, freeing him up for an open look.
33:33He missed it.
33:33It's tipped by Jabari.
33:35Tracked down by Bez and Bang, who's been playing well.
33:44Bailey off the back of the rim.
33:46High for the rebound goes Holiday.
33:50On the right block this time.
33:53There's the double.
33:55And that time again, Bez and Bang, too physical, knocking him in Thompson out of bounds.
33:59But again, we talked about that double flood action.
34:03When Chingun gets it in the mid-post area, it's been pretty good.
34:07Because you've got to pick your poison.
34:09Someone's going to be late.
34:10And Bang with his first foul.
34:11He was a Yale guy.
34:13Spent some time with the Heat during the preseason.
34:15Just signed.
34:16And it looks like Utah has believed.
34:17Look, the reports are that they have signed him to a regular deal.
34:20He's 22 years of age, two-time Ivy League Defensive Player of the Year.
34:28Again, Yale guy.
34:38Jabari stepping back and scoring over the top of Bailey.
34:42Put a shot there from Jabari.
34:44And again, he's so good when he can drive the middle of the floor and get to his left hand.
34:50Rockets with their biggest lead here at 14.
34:52They have not trailed.
34:53They did not trail, even though it got a little hairy at the end against Milwaukee.
34:57Toss it another rebound.
34:58That's his fourth.
35:00They'll race the other way.
35:01He finds a Kogi.
35:02Now back to Jabari.
35:03The Rockets slow it up.
35:08He'll take it.
35:09They leave him open.
35:09But he rims it short.
35:10Another rebound.
35:11Right back to him.
35:11Same spot.
35:13Different result.
35:16And I see that big shot from Jabari.
35:18But it meant Thompson just flying in from rebounds.
35:22It's like he's the only guy who makes a reaction to the ball.
35:29Chandler looking for a call there.
35:32Here's Reed Shepard.
35:36Back to him.
35:37Thought about the really deep three, but Williams is long.
35:40Now he will take it.
35:46Jazz in transition.
35:48Shibway.
35:49Nice patience that time as Thompson sailed by.
35:52Yeah, you've got to have everybody sprinting back on those plays.
36:04Steven Adams is here tonight.
36:06Yeah, I got to see him.
36:09Katella, Jabari, 4-3.
36:10That's his third.
36:12Make his fourth three.
36:13He's got four of them now.
36:15He's got 16.
36:16He's like, you know what, Reed?
36:17You made nine the other night?
36:18Let me see what I can do tonight.
36:20Hey, why not?
36:21That would be great for Houston.
36:23And like we always say, when Jabari scores, the Rockets are at their best.
36:27They're caught.
36:28And then Thompson challenges Williams.
36:30And he did not dunk it, but he did pick up a foul.
36:34And it will be Williams at the line when we come back.
36:36Six-25 to play in the first half.
36:38Jabari Smith, Jr., hot second quarter.
36:41Leads all scorers with 16.
36:43And he's four of six for three.
36:48And let's check out the night that Reed Shepard had the other day.
36:52And, again, he was red hot.
36:54And he's knocking down shots.
36:56But take a look.
36:57Look how far he is behind the three-point line.
37:00Look at this graphic.
37:01He's like Craig Ackerman.
37:02He plays no favorites, okay?
37:04Anywhere on the floor can get it.
37:06He's spotted up.
37:06You see him in transition, spacing the floor off the bounce.
37:10He is a shooter's shooter, Craig.
37:12And I'm telling you, it was box office.
37:14It was fun to watch.
37:15It was fun to watch.
37:16Again, closing in on Eric Gordon for the most, for 10th on the list for most made threes in a
37:21single-season Rockets history.
37:22And, again, he has taken a huge step forward this season.
37:29So here's Williams at the free-throw line.
37:32On this homestand, the Rockets have only trailed 1-0.
37:35And that is to New York.
37:35Other than that, they held the lead.
37:38It's a good thing.
37:39Yeah, it is a great thing.
37:42But how about that?
37:43I mean, Reed was so hot.
37:45As you see Coach Udoka right there, Reed was so hot the other night.
37:49He got double-teamed, and they left Kevin Durant wide open.
37:54That's how hot he was, Craig.
37:55Williams has been much better as he's gotten some more playing time here as of late.
38:03Stolen 21.
38:05It's like a story you tell your grandkids, Craig.
38:07For sure.
38:08He left Kevin Durant to stop me.
38:11Reed Shepard back out to Durant.
38:13From your lips to his shot.
38:17And we will team know Kevin Durant has a no-help rule on him, and you see why.
38:24He's got 12.
38:26Well, you know, Reed was so hot.
38:28How was he?
38:29He was red hot.
38:30The Bucs, remember, they left Durant open.
38:32He was like, what?
38:34That's what we were saying.
38:35And then Kevin, yeah, Kevin said it.
38:38He was like, you can't do that.
38:43Rockets by 20.
38:52And again, it's so instrumental for Reed to hit these shots.
38:58Oh, lined it up and aimed it in with his eyes.
39:03Yeah, he had enough of Filipowski guarding him, so we just wanted to remind him there, I'm still an easy
39:10money sniper, okay?
39:12Durant is six for six, including a couple of threes.
39:15Filipowski scores.
39:16He's got an impressive finish over Clint.
39:19You rarely see that.
39:25And it's tough because when you defend the pick-and-rolls with Reed Shepard, you're like, as a big, you're
39:30like, I don't want to go way out to, you know, 25, 30 feet away from the basket.
39:34Conchar to Mbang.
39:35He missed the layup.
39:36Tip follow also missed by Conchar.
39:39Back to Rockets, come.
39:41Durant to Jabari.
39:43Loops it down low to Capella.
39:44Back out to Durant.
39:48Smith into the lane.
39:49Get off, he sets the ball.
39:51In and out.
39:53Like that physical play by Jabari.
39:56Oh, yeah, it's a perfect ball movement, but no one's tough.
39:59Sets the ball.
40:00Yeah.
40:01For three, he has had some big scoring games.
40:03Gets the Rockets.
40:04Houston got two selfless on that last possession, but that's where those assist totals have jumped up.
40:10Eight for Sets the ball.
40:13Look at Kevin Durant looking to set screens.
40:16Again, that is wonderful action.
40:20As far as the terrific here in this half.
40:23Now to Durant on the reset.
40:24Williams switches up on him.
40:26Durant trying to stay perfect.
40:28Backing into the paint.
40:29On the way up.
40:30Had it strip off.
40:30Oh, Durant is hurt.
40:32Durant is hurt.
40:33He's favoring his right hand.
40:37Now left hand.
40:38Left hand.
40:38Left hand.
40:38Okay.
40:40Second, I thought it was his right.
40:43Look, I guess he's thumb.
40:44His thumb on his left hand.
40:46I don't like that.
40:48It's not shooting him.
40:50See what happened here.
40:51Left hand.
40:53Is there?
40:55Tough angle there.
40:57Academy sports and outdoor Super Bowl replay.
41:01He's not holding it anymore.
41:03So hopefully it was just the shock.
41:12Kogi thought about it.
41:14Oh, step in on Sensible and put it through.
41:18Long step by Sensible.
41:20That's the ball.
41:22Can you just love the energy Josh Brains?
41:25Remember the other game?
41:27He had that put back off the rim.
41:29To the air.
41:31Give and go.
41:32And bang.
41:33Back to Williams.
41:35Over Kogi.
41:35Off the glass.
41:36That's like the second time he's banking a shot here in this first half.
41:38This is the best we've seen from Cody Williams.
41:40And again, he's still young.
41:43Only going to improve.
41:45Brother of Jalen Williams.
41:50They're rolling.
41:53Thompson now to Shepard.
41:55And then Shingun frustrated.
41:56Ends up throwing down and fouling Filipowski.
41:58And that's his second.
42:01Jim Filipowski's getting a little spicier.
42:06Competing more and getting better and better.
42:11Well, he did go to Duke.
42:13A little spicy there.
42:18Probably upset right now.
42:19By the way, best of luck to your UCLA Bruins.
42:23Thank you, Craig.
42:24For the Final Four.
42:24And you know what?
42:25That's one of the nicest things you've said.
42:28Filipowski lays it up.
42:29And they've got Texas.
42:30Filipowski on both ends.
42:31Gets out for a right to play in the natty.
42:35Oh, it's a big game, Craig.
42:36What are you thinking?
42:38I think UCLA takes it home.
42:41Texas is going to be nice and comfortable after getting the win over them.
42:44The only loss that UCLA had.
42:46And Coach Corey Close, the best coach in the country.
42:48Here's where they toss it down the baseline.
42:51And South Carolina has beaten UConn.
42:54Oh, I'm sorry.
42:55It's about two minutes left.
42:56They're up by eight.
43:00UConn has not lost the game all year.
43:05It's the women's Final Four.
43:09Filipowski.
43:09Oh!
43:10He threw it to himself.
43:13I didn't know you.
43:14Excuse me, Kyle.
43:16I didn't know you had that.
43:17I wasn't familiar with your game.
43:20Oh, yeah.
43:21No.
43:22Rep said no.
43:23And Shingun got fouled.
43:25That'll count.
43:26And one.
43:26And I think they're saying Filipowski flopped.
43:30He absolutely did.
43:32Yep.
43:33Yep.
43:34They're saying Filipowski flopped.
43:35That bucket will count for Shingun.
43:37We do have a timeout.
43:38A lot going on here.
43:41Conchar picked up the personal.
43:421.53 to play here in the first half.
43:44But as we head to break, we'll check in now with Kevin Etchenfelder,
43:47who's hanging out in the Rooms to Go Lounge.
43:49All right.
43:50Thanks, Craig.
43:50And welcome inside the Rooms to Go Lounge.
43:52Fans, you can now stream Rockets and Astros games directly on SCHN+.
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44:11at no additional cost.
44:13Don't go anywhere.
44:14More Rockets and Jazz coming up next.
44:17Good evening.
44:18I'm very happy for the award.
44:19I'm very proud.
44:21I'm very grateful.
44:21I'm very grateful to everyone.
44:23I'm going to continue to the country, to the country, to the country,
44:26to the country, to the country, to the country.
44:27I'm going to continue to the country.
44:29I'm going to continue to the country tonight.
44:29I'm going to be happy to everyone tonight.
44:32Welcome back.
44:33That is Alvren Shingun.
44:35His acceptance speech, of course, which was in his...
44:38native Turkish language.
44:39He won Sportsman of the Year.
44:41It's the second time he's won for all of Turkey
44:44for the prestigious Milliyet Sports Awards.
44:47I apologize to our Turkish fans if I butchered that pronunciation.
44:50But just a massive award.
44:52Of course, you can see his family was there
44:54to very proudly accept it on his behalf.
44:56Again, the second time he's won Sportsman of the Year.
44:59He is such a big deal over there.
45:01There are people that spend so much money,
45:04and we witness that every arena we go to, guys, every city,
45:07they are crying real tears because he is such a hero to everybody in Turkey.
45:11Of course, we get to see him up close every day,
45:13and he's wonderful to us as media.
45:15So congratulations, Alvren Sportsman of the Year.
45:17Congratulations to him.
45:19He is a national hero.
45:20He is a terrific young man.
45:21He is unbelievable.
45:23Now, Vanessa, I know we're going to expect you to translate what he said.
45:28You know, his girlfriend, Hannah, had to help me with some of the language.
45:32But, you know, we have so many Turkish fans that stay up past their bedtime,
45:36set their alarms to watch us, and we love them.
45:39Yeah, we're going to ask for help.
45:40Somebody tweet us what he said in that speech.
45:43We'd love to know.
45:44But, yeah, congratulations to him.
45:46And, again, what he did, especially over the course of the summer and Turkey's run,
45:50and, again, he's a terrific young man, outstanding talent.
45:56So happy to have him in a Rockets uniform,
45:59and we've kind of literally watched him grow up so young when he came to the NBA.
46:05Now, did you know that Afgan started off as a swimmer, Craig?
46:09But I didn't know, but I do know that his dad did not play point guard in the NBA as
46:13you tried that.
46:14I never said the NBA.
46:1663-43, and there's a sense of ball bucket.
46:18He played point guard, and Al P is an all-star.
46:22I didn't say his dad is an all-star.
46:24No, no, no.
46:24You're just – oh, my God.
46:25There's history there, my man.
46:26Kevin Love's probably the only one who had a dad as an all-star, right?
46:30Stan Love.
46:30Shout out to the late, great Stan Love.
46:33We just talked about Larry Nance Sr. the other night.
46:36Yeah, well, yes.
46:38There's not a bunch, though.
46:40No, it's not a lot.
46:42Yeah, so who do you think of?
46:43There's Filipowski.
46:45He didn't throw it off the backboard to himself that time, but he whirled and scored again.
46:48He's 6 of 11.
46:49He's got 12.
46:50He's their leading scorer.
46:51He's gotten better.
46:52You can see him getting more and more comfortable with the NBA game.
46:57Very good rebounder as well.
46:59He's smart.
47:01Quite without the ball.
47:02No, Utah's not going to be at the bottom of the standings in the West next season.
47:07Durant goes right back to the free-throw line.
47:10I mean, Kessler, Markkinen, Triple J, Keontae George, Ace Bailey emerging.
47:17They're going to have another high draft pick, as Filipowski's called for a second foul.
47:21Well, Craig, we talked about Houston runs a lot of flare action, and the read is when you switch, you
47:27get underneath that flare,
47:28and you're seeing layups that Houston gets, and you set those players wide, because they're not traditional.
47:34Teams overload Durant.
47:36They overload Chingun, so it's really good action that Coach Udoka's thrown in,
47:41and something that you can do without having a dribble, and you shouldn't be turning the ball over.
47:45That's terrific of a first half that Jabari has had.
47:47All of a sudden, Kevin Durant shooting for his 18th point, and he has it, and he's the game-leading
47:52scorer.
47:52I mean, 6 of 7 from the floor.
47:56Made both of his threes, 4 of 5 in the line, a couple of rebounds, 3 assists, 18 points.
48:01He's the most—
48:02Has a blocked shot.
48:03He's the best pure scorer I've ever seen.
48:05He can literally do it from anywhere, on the ball, off the ball.
48:09And Tari Haston ends up fouling Williams with 35 and 3 tenths seconds to play in the second quarter.
48:16Tari's first.
48:17Tari's had a good game, 3 for 3, 7 points.
48:21Didn't have a great shooting game against Milwaukee, but as of late again, he's looked like the Tari of old,
48:26which is a great sign for this team as they prepare for the postseason.
48:31And again, anything can happen now, especially with Luka's injury.
48:343 through 6 out west.
48:36So many scenarios still have played.
48:38Missed free throw, and now a word from Jack of the Box.
48:41Hot Ness is back with spicy jalapenos, onion rings, and gooey pepper jack cheese.
48:46Welcome to Jack of the Box.
48:47And it does look like your UCLA Brewers are going to play South Carolina if they win for the natty.
48:52They'll beat Texas.
48:54Don't go—
48:55Keep going.
48:56Don't speak it up too fast.
48:57Let us—
48:57You already—you already said they were going to win.
48:59Yeah, but when you say it, it's a different thing.
49:03Shen Goode—
49:03Ooh!
49:03—by two and drops it in.
49:06Again, the footwork.
49:07Oh, that was pretty.
49:07The footwork for Shen Goode.
49:09He's got nine.
49:11Well, Filipowski probably talking about flopping again and just what was left in the dust.
49:17Sensible, thought about it.
49:20Tightly fitted by Tari, goes over the top of the pick now to Williams, and he's able to beat Shen
49:23Goode to the rim.
49:25Cody Williams, man.
49:27He's—
49:27He's moving differently.
49:29He's got 12.
49:30But that's what more consistent playing time and some extra confidence will do for you.
49:34And that's a bad pass.
49:36Shen Goode picks it up.
49:37Now to Tari East, and the wing three is on the way.
49:39It's no good.
49:39That's his first miss of the first half.
49:41And here's a heave for midcourt.
49:43And off the backboard for Filipowski.
49:46So the Rockets, led by as many as 23 in the first half, and have a comfortable 19-point lead
49:51here at the break.
49:5269-50.
49:53A reminder coming up on the Toyota Halftime Report with Vanessa Richardson and Calvin Murphy.
49:58Talked about Javari's hot shooting in the first half.
50:01Made four threes.
50:01And, of course, Kevin Durant consistent as always.
50:05And Rockets assistant coach Josh Bostick is now standing by with Vanessa.
50:09So, Vanessa, take it away.
50:11Hey, Coach Bostick, a commanding first half lead.
50:13What did you like the most?
50:14We respect our opponent.
50:16They're well coached.
50:17Came out with a playoff mentality, and that's what we need moving forward.
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