Rockets Dominate Pelicans in 134-102 Blowout

Alperen Sengun's career night leads Houston to a decisive road victory.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 3:33am

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An abstract, energetic painting in neon colors and loose brushstrokes, conveying the intensity and movement of a basketball game.Alperen Sengun's career night powers the Rockets to a dominant road win over the Pelicans.New Orleans Today

The Houston Rockets cruised to a 134-102 win over the New Orleans Pelicans, led by a dominant performance from center Alperen Sengun. Sengun finished with 36 points, 14 rebounds, 7 assists, 3 steals and 3 blocks, helping the Rockets pull away with a 39-18 second quarter. Kevin Durant and Jabari Smith Jr. also scored 20 points each in the lopsided victory.

Why it matters

The win levels the Rockets' road record at 19-19 and provides a much-needed confidence boost as they continue to fight for a playoff spot in the Western Conference. Sengun's breakout game also showcases his continued development into one of the league's most versatile young big men.

The details

The Rockets and Pelicans played a close first quarter, but Houston took control in the second with a 39-18 run. The Pelicans made a push in the third quarter, but the Rockets maintained their lead and pulled away again in the fourth. Sengun dominated the Pelicans' frontcourt, shooting 12-of-23 from the field and 5-of-7 from three-point range. Durant and Smith also had efficient scoring nights, while the Rockets outrebounded the Pelicans 59-36.

  • The Rockets and Pelicans were tied 29-29 after the first quarter.
  • The Rockets outscored the Pelicans 39-18 in the second quarter to take a 68-47 halftime lead.
  • The Pelicans made a run in the third quarter, but the Rockets maintained their 21-point advantage.
  • The Rockets won the fourth quarter 33-22 to seal the 134-102 victory.

The players

Alperen Sengun

The Rockets' 20-year-old center had a career night, scoring 36 points on 12-of-23 shooting, including 5-of-7 from three-point range. He also grabbed 14 rebounds, dished 7 assists, and recorded 3 steals and 3 blocks.

Kevin Durant

The veteran forward scored 20 points on 7-of-16 shooting and added 6 assists for the Rockets.

Jabari Smith Jr.

The Rockets' rookie forward contributed 20 points on 7-of-15 shooting, including 4-of-9 from three-point range.

Amen Thompson

The Rockets' rookie guard had 14 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists in 35 minutes of action.

Tari Eason

The second-year forward provided a much-needed boost off the bench, scoring 15 points on 6-of-12 shooting, including 3-of-5 from three-point range.

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What they’re saying

“Alperen Sengun was completely dominant, against a fairly big New Orleans frontcourt. That's a lot of big men, and not a one of them could slow down Alperen Sengun.”

— Xian E, Author

What’s next

The Rockets will return home to face the New York Knicks on Tuesday, looking to build on this decisive road victory.

The takeaway

Alperen Sengun's career night and the Rockets' dominant rebounding performance showcase the team's potential when they play to their strengths. If Sengun can continue this level of play, the Rockets could make a late-season push for a playoff spot in the crowded Western Conference.