Tonight marks the start of another pursuit of the NBA Cup for the Houston Rockets. After a strong showing last season, the team hopes to build on the momentum that signaled the end of their rebuilding phase.
The Rockets made a statement in the previous campaign by winning their NBA Cup group. Their decisive win on the neon-green court in Minnesota clinched the group stage with a game to spare. Despite Sacramento’s impressive 15 consecutive made shots in the final round, Houston secured a home matchup in the knockout phase.
That advantage paid off when they finally defeated the Golden State Warriors for the first time in four years. Although their run ended with a semifinal loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, the experience was invaluable for the young core, marking their first exposure to meaningful, high-pressure games.
The next challenge comes in the form of the San Antonio Spurs, a team that looks ready to replicate Houston’s rise. The Spurs are led by Victor Wembanyama, who would be both MVP and Defensive Player of the Year if the season ended today, alongside last year’s Rookie of the Year, Stephon Castle.
“Houston announced to the league that they were done being bad.”
Every Rockets fan knows that the stakes are high, but confidence remains strong that at least one of the questionable players will suit up tonight.
Houston aims to extend last season’s momentum against a surging Spurs team featuring Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle, in a matchup full of young talent and intrigue.