The Houston Rockets defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves 121-115 on Friday, Feb. 21, at the Toyota Center. The game was closely contested throughout, but the Rockets made enough plays late to secure their win.
Jalen Green led the Rockets with 35 points, while Alperen Sengun added 24 points. Anthony Edwards led the Timberwolves with 37 points. The Rockets came out strong, scoring 48 points in the first quarter, a franchise record and the highest-scoring quarter of the season.
Houston’s efficiency from beyond the arc was impressive, finishing with a 13-of-26 (50%) mark from three-point range. In contrast, Minnesota struggled to find their shot, making only 11-of-39 (28.2%) shots from long range.
The Rockets were without starting point guard Fred VanVleet due to an ankle injury, but welcomed Jabari Smith Jr. back into the lineup after a 22-game absence. Smith finished with 15 points and nine rebounds in his return.
Houston’s coach Ime Udoka attributed the team’s success to Minnesota’s lack of rim protection, which allowed the Rockets to flood the lane and kick out to shooters. The win lifted Houston to a 35-21 record on the season, putting them fourth in the Western Conference.
Source: https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2025/02/22/historic-first-quarter-helps-rockets-edge-out-timberwolves-121-115