Rockets edge Hawks 121-114 in Atlanta's season-opening home game

Rockets Secure Victory in Atlanta

The Houston Rockets claimed a 121-114 victory over the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. The win improved the Rockets' record to 3-0 for the season, while the Hawks dropped to 2-1. Attendance for the game was 17,942.

For the visiting squad, Kevin Durant led the scoring with 22 points. Reed Sheppard contributed significantly to the offensive flow with seven assists, and Amen Thompson anchored the defense with 11 rebounds. The Hawks received a balanced effort from Jalen Johnson, who posted 26 points, 16 assists, and nine rebounds.

First Half Momentum

The Rockets established an early lead, outscoring the Hawks 30-26 in the first quarter. Houston maintained its advantage through the second quarter, taking a 59-46 lead into the halftime break. The visitors shot well from beyond the arc, with Durant and Sheppard connecting on key three-point attempts to build the cushion.

The Hawks responded with consistent scoring from Jalen Johnson and Nickeil Alexander-Walker, but the Rockets' balanced attack kept them ahead by 13 points at the half.

Third Quarter Surge

Houston extended its lead significantly in the third quarter, outscoring Atlanta 33-22. The Rockets' offense clicked during this stretch, with Durant and Alperen Sengun driving to the basket and creating separation. The Hawks managed to close the gap slightly in the fourth quarter, scoring 33 points, but the deficit proved too large to overcome.

The final quarter score was 29-33 in favor of the Hawks, but the earlier lead secured the win for the visitors.

Final Records

The game concluded with the Rockets improving to a 3-0 start, highlighting their strong early-season performance. The Hawks, playing at home, fell to 2-1. The performance of the Rockets' core players, including Durant's scoring and Thompson's rebounding, was pivotal in securing the result.

The Hawks' effort led by Johnson was notable, but the Rockets' overall execution in the first half proved decisive. The final score stood at 121-114 in favor of Houston.

Sources

ESPN