Rockets Overcome Early Deficit to Defeat Suns

Houston rallies from 21-point first-quarter hole to extend winning streak to seven games

Apr. 9, 2026 at 4:51am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball game between the Houston Rockets and Phoenix Suns, with the players' forms broken down into abstract shapes and planes of vibrant red, orange, and blue colors.The Rockets' resilience and comeback against the Suns showcases the team's maturity and growth as a playoff contender.Los Angeles Today

The Houston Rockets overcame a slow start and a 21-point first-quarter deficit to defeat the Phoenix Suns 98-68 over the final three quarters and extend their winning streak to seven games. The Rockets struggled early, shooting just 3-for-12 with seven turnovers in the opening seven minutes, but they regrouped and outscored the Suns 98-68 the rest of the way to pull off the comeback victory.

Why it matters

The Rockets' resilience and ability to bounce back from a large early deficit against one of the top teams in the Western Conference demonstrates their growth and maturity as a team. This win keeps Houston in the hunt for a top-4 seed in the playoffs, which would give them home-court advantage in the first round.

The details

After falling behind 37-21 at the end of the first quarter, the Rockets responded by outscoring the Suns 71-41 over the final three quarters. Houston shot 50% from the field and 41% from 3-point range over the final three quarters, while limiting their turnovers to just 10 after the opening period.

  • The Rockets fell behind 21-7 just seven minutes into the game.
  • Houston trailed 37-21 at the end of the first quarter.
  • The Rockets outscored the Suns 98-68 over the final three quarters.

The players

Houston Rockets

An NBA team that has won seven straight games and is tied for the fourth seed in the Western Conference.

Phoenix Suns

One of the top teams in the Western Conference, who led the Rockets by 21 points early in the game.

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What they’re saying

“This win in Phoenix showed just how mature this team has gotten since a historic 13-point overtime lead was blown against the Minnesota Timberwolves on March 25.”

— Jed Katz, Author

What’s next

The Rockets will look to continue their strong play and secure a top-4 seed in the Western Conference playoffs as they head into their final three regular season games.

The takeaway

The Rockets' comeback victory over the Suns demonstrated their resilience and growth as a team, overcoming a large early deficit against one of the top teams in the West. This win keeps Houston in the hunt for home-court advantage in the first round of the playoffs.