Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka highlighted the team’s resilience after their 111-107 win over Dallas, saying, “Yeah, it was a good one. Good composure at the end… we get some stops when we need to, and those always help to win some games by and large in crucial situations.”
Udoka addressed Cooper Flagg’s late-game impact, noting, “I think Flagg obviously took some shots and went downhill way too much. We weren’t solid enough… he took advantage of that.”
On defensive adjustments, he added: “The last play our guy guarding him was, I think, the most solid we were. Stay up front, didn’t reach, didn’t gamble… got him to the finish and we got a stop.”
The coach praised Jabari Smith Jr. and said, “It was good, especially because Kevin and Alpi were off shooting a little bit on the night…six guys in double figures and a solid defensive first half.”
Udoka emphasized the importance of balance, noting, “It’s necessary. We’re not relying on one or two guys…Amen, Jabari, Tari and Josh are also taking some shots tonight.”
He commented on Amen Thompson’s versatility, saying: “He does it in different ways… sometimes he’s asked to score, play for others… his aggressiveness is great, and an all-round game in general.”
Reflecting on Flagg’s growth, Udoka added, “The growth he’s had, the steps he’s taken… impressive to see a teenager do some of the things he does.”
The Rockets’ offensive execution deserved recognition, as Udoka explained: “It was great to have just one turnover at halftime, and only four more in the second half… 33 assists, quality shots… winning that possession.”
On Alperen Sengun’s efforts, he said: “Guys won’t be 100% at the moment but something he has to play through… love his aggressiveness… he could have easily gone 10 for 20.”
Udoka emphasized the importance of team depth and versatility, concluding: “The balance is great when your key guys have nights off and others pick up the slack… encourage guys to be confident and aggressive.”
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