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Alperen Sengun delivered a stellar 20-point performance as the Houston Rockets handily defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 146-117 on Saturday night at the Toyota Center.
The 22-year-old Turkish center was efficient on both ends of the floor, shooting 63.6% from the field while going 85.7% from the free-throw line. Sengun rounded out his impressive stat line with 5 rebounds, 6 assists, and 2 blocks in 32 minutes of play.
This marks Sengun's third strong showing against New Orleans this season. In their previous matchup just days earlier, he recorded 18.3 points and 9.3 rebounds against the Pelicans.
Currently, in his third NBA season, after being drafted 16th overall in 2021, Sengun has established himself as a cornerstone of the Rockets' rebuild.
He's averaging 19.3 points and 10.4 rebounds per game this season, ranking him 39th in scoring and 8th in rebounding league-wide.
The Rockets dominated from start to finish in their second consecutive win over New Orleans. Houston, which improved to 39-25, never trailed in the contest and built their lead to as many as 37 points.
While Dillon Brooks led all Rockets with 27 points, Sengun's consistent interior presence helped Houston outscore the Pelicans 72-70 in the paint despite facing Zion Williamson, who finished with 20 points for New Orleans.
The victory continues Houston's strong home performance this season as they look to capitalize on their current six-game homestand. They'll return to action Monday night when they host the Orlando Magic.
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