HOUSTON – Reed Sheppard delivered a career performance Wednesday night, scoring 27 points with a personal-best nine 3-pointers as the Houston Rockets extended their winning streak to four games with a 119-113 victory over a depleted Milwaukee Bucks squad. The Rockets’ win solidifies their position in the Western Conference playoff picture, while the Bucks continue to grapple with a mounting injury list.
Sheppard, a key component of Houston’s rising success, was instrumental in the Rockets’ offensive surge. He wasn’t alone, however. Alperen Sengun added 25 points, and veteran Kevin Durant contributed 19 points alongside nine assists. Amen Thompson showcased an all-around performance with 18 points, nine rebounds, and six assists, while Jabari Smith Jr. Chipped in with 12 points. Houston shot an efficient 47% from the field, connecting on 18 of 42 attempts from beyond the arc.
The Rockets’ ball movement was a key factor in their success, racking up 30 assists on 41 field goals. They also capitalized on Milwaukee’s miscues, forcing 15 turnovers that resulted in 18 points. This offensive efficiency, combined with a strong defensive effort, proved too much for the Bucks to overcome despite a valiant effort.
Milwaukee, playing without several key players, received a strong performance from Ousmane Dieng, who posted a career-high 36 points, seven rebounds, and 10 assists. Cormac Ryan added a season-best 25 points, and Pete Nance contributed a career-high 23. AJ Green rounded out the scoring with 15 points and eight rebounds. Despite shooting 47% from the field and hitting 17 of 40 3-point attempts, the Bucks couldn’t contain Sheppard and the Rockets’ balanced attack.
The Bucks mounted a significant comeback attempt in the third quarter, knocking down 10 three-pointers to trim Houston’s 20-point lead to just seven. However, the Rockets responded in the fourth, maintaining their composure and closing out the game effectively. A late surge from Milwaukee, fueled by Dieng’s scoring, brought the game within four points, but Houston held on for the win.
The game was also marked by an early injury to Milwaukee’s Gary Trent Jr., who exited with a hip contusion after a hard fall in the first quarter. His absence further depleted the Bucks’ already thin roster, leaving them with only seven available players for much of the contest. Ryan Rollins was previously ruled out with a right hip strain, compounding Milwaukee’s challenges.
This victory marks the first season sweep for the Rockets against the Bucks since 2018, a testament to Houston’s improved play and depth. The Rockets now boast a record of 47-29, temporarily taking a half-game lead over the Minnesota Timberwolves for fifth place in the Western Conference. The win underscores Houston’s momentum as the regular season nears its conclusion.
For the Bucks, the loss highlights the challenges they face with a roster hampered by injuries. Despite the strong individual performances from Dieng, Ryan, and Nance, the team couldn’t overcome the absence of key contributors and the Rockets’ consistent offensive execution. The Bucks will require to find ways to navigate their injury situation and maintain competitiveness as they push for a playoff berth.
The Rockets’ success is also a reflection of their improved team chemistry and coaching adjustments. Coach Ime Udoka has effectively integrated young talent like Sheppard and Thompson into the lineup, creating a dynamic and versatile team. Houston’s ability to share the ball, defend effectively, and capitalize on opponents’ mistakes has been crucial to their recent success.
Looking ahead, the Rockets will look to continue their winning ways as they face a challenging schedule in the final weeks of the regular season. Their next game is against the Phoenix Suns on Friday, April 5th, at Toyota Center. The Bucks, meanwhile, will aim to bounce back from this defeat when they host the Charlotte Hornets on Friday, April 5th.
The Rockets’ performance on Wednesday night was a clear demonstration of their potential and a sign of things to come. With a talented roster and a determined mindset, Houston is poised to make a strong push in the Western Conference playoffs.
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