The Houston Rockets were in full force against the San Antonio Spurs on Christmas Day, winning 111-98. The Rockets lifted off from the opening tip, taking a 40-25 lead after the first quarter. Their 1st quarter lead came from the strong play of Chandler Parsons. Parsons had 14pts (4-4 3FG) after just one. James Harden had a quiet three quarters, barely approaching double figures after three. All Spurs fans could sense that Harden would heat up at some point or another, but were hoping that their Spurs stay close. After three quarters, the Rockets led 83-75. Harden closed out the game and manhandled the Spurs in the fourth, adding 14 in the fourth, 11 straight, and totaling for 28pts. Harden also added 6ast and 6rebs. His big man down low Dwight Howard had 15pts and 20rebs. Parsons ended the game with 21pts, sporting his new haircut in honor of a cancer patient’s Christmas present. As for the Spurs, Ginobli carried them all the way with 22pts after a strong first quarter. Tim Duncan had 11pts and 14rebs. Tony Parker was held in check all night, totaling for only 6pts on 3 made field goals.
This was one of the better/closer Christmas day games thus far. After this game, the Rockets are looking like a solid contender in the West led by a healthy Dwight Howard and a dynamic James Harden.
