Rockets Show Heart in the Heart of Texas

The Rockets won an exciting back-and-forth game in San Antonio today 87-85 by playing tough, smart defense and remaining cool, calm and collected at the end of the game on offense. Twice in the last minute, Yao took the pass at the top of the key after setting a strong pick for Aaron Brooks, then found Luis Scola wide open under the basket for an easy two.

Houston held the usually potent combination of Parker and Duncan to only 39% shooting for the day. Kyle Lowry played a good game and even though Aaron Brooks was held to 2-10 shooting, the Rockets' two-headed point guard harassed Tony Parker into taking enough bad shots to secure the win. Yao Ming was again fronted down low and was only able to take eight shots in the game, hitting six, but he was strong on defense against the Spurs' big men.

Ron Artest was the game's leading scorer with 24 and played under control the entire game. Special kudos also go to Luis Scola for a well-played game. He had 19 points and 17 rebounds in 37 energy-filled minutes.

The most important aspect of this game for the Rockets, though, was the composure they showed in the fourth quarter when they were down by six with only 3 minutes to play. They stuck together, listened to their coach and kept the faith. With that in mind, the game ball goes to Rick Adelman for this one. He called the right plays at the right time and managed to convince the entire team of the soundness of his defensive strategy. Good job, guys!