Houston Rockets thought they had pulled off a dramatic win over the Portland Trail Blazers, but Tari Eason’s buzzer-beating tip-in was ruled too late after review. Houston lost 103-102 despite strong performances from Kevin Durant and Eason, who posted a double-double.
Houston Rockets were inches away from another dramatic win but saw it slip away in the final moment against the Portland Trail Blazers.
Houston fell 103-102 on Wednesday at the Moda Center after Tari Eason appeared to score the game-winner at the buzzer. Following a missed jumper by Kevin Durant, Eason tipped the ball in as time expired, and the Rockets celebrated on the floor.
However, a video review showed the ball left his hands just after the horn, wiping out the basket. The loss dropped Houston to a 22-12 record, while Portland improved to 18-20.
Eason still delivered a strong all-around performance. He posted a double-double with 15 points and 13 rebounds, adding one steal and one block. His shooting night was tough, as he went 5 of 18 from the field and 2 of 8 from three, but his energy and effort stood out once again.
Since moving into the starting lineup, Eason has continued to produce. With Alperen Sengun expected to miss at least two weeks due to an ankle injury, the 24-year-old forward is set to take on a larger role in the Rockets' rotation.
Kevin Durant led Houston with 37 points and four rebounds, while Amen Thompson added 24 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists. The Rockets were hoping to follow up their recent close win over the Phoenix Suns, where Durant hit the deciding shot late.
Houston will not have to wait long for a response, as the Rockets and Trail Blazers meet again on Friday in a rematch.
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