Key Takeaways:
- Houston Rockets secured a 117-113 overtime victory against the Orlando Magic on Sunday night
- Alperen Sengun posted 30 points and 12 rebounds, while Kevin Durant contributed 35 points
- Franz Wagner scored a season-high 29 points as Orlando played without Paolo Banchero and Jalen Suggs
Match Analysis
The Houston Rockets fought back from an 11-point deficit in the fourth quarter to claim a 117-113 win in overtime over the Orlando Magic at home. Alperen Sengun emerged as a key performer for the Rockets, delivering 30 points alongside 12 rebounds, while Kevin Durant led all scorers with 35 points. This result marked Houston’s fourth consecutive win.
'til the clock hits 0, we FIGHT 😤#AllFire pic.twitter.com/ghx8O1OvQh
— Houston Rockets (@HoustonRockets) November 17, 2025
Orlando appeared poised for victory late in overtime, holding a narrow lead. However, Amen Thompson converted a decisive dunk after receiving an assist from Durant, putting Houston ahead with under a minute remaining. Jabari Smith Jr. maintained the advantage by blocking a Franz Wagner layup, allowing Durant to sink a crucial step-back jumper, pushing the scoreline to 113-110 with just 9.2 seconds to play.
Decisive Moments in Overtime
Franz Wagner responded with two free throws with 8.7 seconds on the clock, narrowing the gap to a single point. Reed Sheppard then demonstrated composure at the line, scoring both free throws to restore Houston’s margin to 115-112 with only 4.1 seconds left. Wendell Carter Jr. managed one free throw for the Magic, but a lane violation on his second attempt preserved the lead for Houston.
Thompson’s subsequent pair of free throws clinched the contest, confirming the Rockets’ victory and extending their winning streak.
Player Performance and Absentees
Franz Wagner achieved a season-best 29 points for Orlando, while Desmond Bane recorded a season-high of 26 points. The Magic competed without Paolo Banchero and Jalen Suggs, both sidelined due to groin injuries.
Houston entered the final period trailing by as many as 11 points but staged a remarkable turnaround. Durant tied the match at 100 apiece by connecting from three-point range with 21.4 seconds left in regulation.
Key Statistics
| Player | Team | Points | Rebounds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kevin Durant | Houston Rockets | 35 | 5 |
| Alperen Sengun | Houston Rockets | 30 | 12 |
| Franz Wagner | Orlando Magic | 29 | 5 |
| Desmond Bane | Orlando Magic | 26 | 4 |
Crucial Closing Plays
With 5.3 seconds left in regulation, Sengun blocked a layup attempt from Bane, initially resulting in an Orlando possession after the ball went out. Following a Houston challenge, the decision was overturned. However, Sengun’s inbounds pass intended for Durant was intercepted by Anthony Black, who finished with a dunk before missing the ensuing free throw, giving Houston one final opportunity.
Sengun capitalised, scoring in the lane as the buzzer sounded to tie proceedings at 102-102, ultimately forcing overtime.
Looking Ahead
Orlando will welcome the Golden State Warriors on Tuesday, while the Rockets are set to visit the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday.
