Quentin Grimes Shatters Career Record with 46 Points, But 76ers Fall to Rockets in Overtime
In an electrifying matchup on Monday night, the Houston Rockets pulled off a stunning 144-137 overtime victory against the Philadelphia 76ers, thanks to standout performances from Jalen Green and Jabari Smith Jr., who each scored 30 points. This win marked the Rockets' seventh consecutive victory, showcasing their impressive form.
Despite trailing by as much as 25 points during the game and never leading in regulation, the Rockets mounted a remarkable comeback. They opened overtime with a 9-3 run, taking a six-point lead. Quentin Grimes, however, wasn't ready to back down; he nailed a crucial 3-pointer, narrowing the gap to 140-137 with just under 2.5 minutes left in the extra period.
In the final moments, Alperen Sengun stepped up, sinking two free throws with just over a minute remaining, followed by Aaron Holiday, who added two more with only 12.1 seconds left, sealing the game at 144-137.
As the fourth quarter wound down, the Rockets found themselves down by eight points with less than a minute to go. They executed a 10-2 run to tie the game at 131, forcing overtime. Smith made one free throw but missed the second, allowing Sengun to grab the rebound and score the put-back, tying the game with just 3.1 seconds left. The 76ers had a chance to win in regulation, but Jalen Hood-Schifino's jumper fell short.
Quentin Grimes had a night to remember, scoring a career-high 46 points and grabbing 13 rebounds, along with a personal best of eight 3-pointers. His stellar performance contributed to the 76ers tying a franchise record with 24 three-pointers made in the game.
The 76ers, dealing with a roster impacted by injuries, have seen their young players step up, with Grimes emerging as a key player. The former University of Houston star has been on fire lately, scoring at least 40 points twice this month and surpassing 30 points four times.
On the other hand, the Rockets will need to work on their consistency, especially after digging themselves into a significant hole early in the game. The teams combined for a staggering 46 three-pointers, with Houston hitting a season-high 22.
Looking ahead, the Rockets will visit Orlando on Wednesday, while the 76ers are set to face Oklahoma City that same night.