Despite a remarkable performance by Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Milwaukee Bucks fell short against the Houston Rockets on Saturday, with a final score of 112-108. The game, held at the Toyota Center in Houston, marked the end of a seven-game homestand for the Rockets, who finished with a 3-4 record.

Alperen Sengun and Jabari Smith Jr. were instrumental in the Rockets’ victory, both achieving double-doubles. Sengun contributed 21 points and 11 rebounds, while Smith added 14 points and 12 boards. A crucial moment came when Sengun assisted Smith for a 3-pointer in the closing minutes, securing the win for the Rockets after the Bucks attempted to narrow the gap.

Giannis Antetokounmpo’s standout performance for the Bucks included an impressive 48 points and 17 rebounds. However, the efforts of Damian Lillard and Khris Middleton fell short, with a combined shooting performance of 8 for 25, including a mere 1 for 13 from 3-point range, contributing to the Bucks’ third loss in four games.

Notably, seven Rockets players achieved double-digit scores, with Jalen Green and Jeff Green each contributing 16 points, and Fred VanVleet adding 14 points and seven assists.

Despite trailing by 20 points at halftime, the Bucks showed resilience in the third quarter, narrowing the gap and attempting to stage a comeback. However, the Rockets managed to respond to every Bucks rally, maintaining their lead and ultimately securing the victory.

The Rockets’ strong performance was supported by two significant runs in the first half, which provided them with the advantage they maintained throughout the game. A 13-0 run at the end of the first period and another run in the second period allowed the Rockets to establish and maintain their lead.

Rookie Cam Whitmore also made a notable contribution to the Rockets’ success, scoring 12 points and playing a pivotal role in the team’s early momentum.