Rockets Hold Off 76ers Despite Late Rally

Kevin Durant's clutch 3-pointer seals victory for Houston

Apr. 10, 2026 at 8:25am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball game in progress, with the players' forms broken down into sharp, overlapping shapes and planes of color.The Rockets' victory over the 76ers showcases the team's resilience and ability to make clutch plays when needed.Houston Today

The Houston Rockets held off a late rally by the Philadelphia 76ers to win 113-102 on Thursday night. Kevin Durant scored a game-high 29 points, including a critical 3-pointer in the final minutes to seal the victory for the Rockets, who extended their winning streak to eight games.

Why it matters

This was an important win for the Rockets as they continue their push for a high playoff seed in the Western Conference. The 76ers, playing without star center Joel Embiid, were unable to complete their comeback and have now lost five of their last six games.

The details

The Rockets built a 28-point lead in the third quarter, but the 76ers stormed back with a 16-0 run to cut the deficit to just five points late in the fourth. However, Durant's 3-pointer halted the 76ers' momentum and secured the victory for Houston. Jabari Smith Jr. and Amen Thompson each scored 19 points for the Rockets, while Tyrese Maxey led the 76ers with 23 points.

  • The Rockets extended their winning streak to eight games with the victory.
  • The 76ers have now lost five of their last six games.

The players

Kevin Durant

A star forward for the Houston Rockets who scored a game-high 29 points, including a crucial 3-pointer late in the game to seal the victory.

Tyrese Maxey

A guard for the Philadelphia 76ers who led his team with 23 points, but was unable to complete the comeback.

Joel Embiid

The star center for the Philadelphia 76ers who missed the game due to an emergency appendectomy earlier on Thursday.

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What they’re saying

“We must continue to play with that same intensity and focus if we want to make a deep playoff run.”

— Kevin Durant, Rockets Forward

What’s next

The Rockets will look to extend their winning streak when they host the Golden State Warriors on Saturday. The 76ers will try to get back on track when they visit the Miami Heat on Sunday.

The takeaway

This game showcased the Rockets' ability to withstand a late comeback and make the necessary plays to secure a crucial victory. Meanwhile, the 76ers' loss without Embiid highlights their need to find more consistent scoring options beyond their star center.