Photo by Kenneth Richmond/Getty Images

By Rafael Bandayrel

The Houston Rockets pulled off a gritty 110-105 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Saturday (PH time) at the Toyota Center, capping off a tightly contested matchup that came down to execution in the final stretch.

Neither side managed to gain clear separation through the first three quarters, with the game featuring multiple lead changes and strong defensive stands from both teams. The stalemate was finally broken in the fourth quarter when the Rockets erupted on a decisive 16-7 run, giving the home crowd something to roar about and providing Houston the cushion it needed to close out the win.

Kevin Durant delivered a spectacular all-around performance, exploding for 39 points to go along with 7 assists and 4 rebounds. Apleren Sengun also made his presence felt in the paint, posting a dominant double-double of 25 points and 13 rebounds to anchor the Rockets on both ends of the floor.

With the win, Houston improved its record to 24-15 and continues to build momentum as the season progresses. The Rockets will look to keep the good times rolling when they host the New Orleans Pelicans on Monday.

—JMS, Alta Sports