MINNEAPOLIS – In a game destined for NBA highlight reels, the Minnesota Timberwolves overcame a 13-point deficit in overtime to defeat the Houston Rockets 110-108 on Wednesday night. The victory, fueled by a stunning 15-0 run to close out the game, marks the largest overtime comeback in the play-by-play era (since 1997-98), according to the NBA.
The improbable win came against a backdrop of adversity for the Timberwolves, who were playing without key contributors Anthony Edwards and Naz Reid (ejected in overtime), and saw Rudy Gobert foul out with six personal fouls. Jaden McDaniels also exited the game due to injury, leaving Minnesota severely shorthanded.
Early in the extra period, it appeared the Rockets were poised to secure the win. Alperen Sengun, the Houston center, ignited a 13-0 run with a powerful dunk, extending their lead to 108-95 with 3:01 remaining in overtime. At that point, a Rockets victory seemed all but certain.
However, the Timberwolves refused to concede. The comeback began with a three-pointer from veteran guard Mike Conley. Kyle Anderson then converted a tough and-one layup over Sengun, drawing the Timberwolves within five points and forcing a Houston timeout. Donte DiVincenzo followed by driving past Sengun for an easy basket, further closing the gap.
The Rockets’ offense faltered down the stretch, missing open shots and turning the ball over. Julius Randle capitalized, scoring a layup over Sengun to cut the deficit to just three points. Amen Thompson’s floater missed, and Kevin Durant subsequently lost possession, creating an opportunity for DiVincenzo to tie the game with a clutch jump shot. Randle then completed the improbable turnaround, hitting a mid-range jumper to give Minnesota a two-point lead with nine seconds remaining.
Durant was fouled and sent to the free-throw line. He missed his first attempt, and intentionally missed the second, hoping to secure an offensive rebound. However, the Timberwolves secured the rebound, sealing the victory.
JULIUS RANDLE HITS THE Proceed-AHEAD JUMPER!
AFTER TRAILING BY 13 POINTS IN OT, THE TIMBERWOLVES CLOSE OUT THE GAME ON A 15-0 RUN TO STORM BACK AND WIN BY 2 AT HOME 🤯 pic.twitter.com/YdmtZWEeNa
— NBA (@NBA) March 26, 2026
The Timberwolves’ resilience was particularly impressive considering the circumstances. The team faced a significant challenge with multiple key players unavailable. The victory sends a clear message about their determination and depth.
Earlier in the game, Alperen Sengun had been a dominant force for the Rockets, showcasing his scoring ability and physicality. However, he struggled to contain the Timberwolves’ late-game surge. Kevin Durant, despite a sluggish start to the game, finished with a strong performance, but ultimately couldn’t prevent the Rockets’ collapse.
The game was also marked by a questionable flagrant foul called on Julius Randle earlier in the fourth quarter, a call that sparked controversy and appeared to shift the momentum in Houston’s favor temporarily. The officiating crew, led by Scott Foster, faced scrutiny for several calls throughout the night.
This game was a crucial contest for both teams as they jockey for position in the Western Conference playoff picture. The Timberwolves’ win strengthens their hold on a playoff spot, although the Rockets will need to regroup after this devastating loss.
The Timberwolves will next face the Denver Nuggets on Friday, March 28th, at Target Center. Tip-off is scheduled for 8:00 PM CT (UTC-5). The Rockets will return home to host the Phoenix Suns on the same night.
This game will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most dramatic and improbable comebacks of the NBA season. The Timberwolves’ unwavering spirit and relentless effort proved to be the difference in a game that had it all.
