The Houston Rockets opened a home-and-home series against the New Orleans Pelicans Thursday night, defeating them 109-97 because to a dominant second half led by Amen Thompson, who finished with 21 points and 11 rebounds.

The Rockets ended a three-game losing streak with 21 points from Tari Eason and 22 points, eight assists, and three steals from Alperen Sengun. Their past eight away games have ended in defeat. Trey Murphy III led the Pelicans with 26 points. Zion Williamson finished with 10 rebounds and 20 points. Thompson scored 12 points in the second half, including a slam to end the Rockets' early run that gave them the lead for the first time and continued to do so throughout the game. Later, in the third quarter, they went on a 12-0 run.