The Houston Rockets defeated the host Phoenix Suns, 118-109, at Footprint Center on Saturday.

A 38-19 first quarter carried Houston to this win, maintaining the lead for all but 11 seconds. That rare lead happened in the opening three minutes, with Houston getting their lead up to 20 points at times. The Rockets shot 38 percent from three-point range (16-of-42), while the Suns connected on just 31 percent (9-of-29). Houston also recorded 13 steals to Phoenix's six, winning the turnover battle, 19-12. That allowed them to outscore the Suns in fastbreak points, 28-10.

The Rockets (26-34) were led by Jalen Green, generating 34 points, nine rebounds, four assists and two steals. Fred VanVleet finished with 24 points, five rebounds and 11 assists. Alperen Sengun accrued 21 points, 10 rebounds, two assists and two steals, while Jabari Smith had 14 points and five rebounds. Dillon Brooks rounded out the starting lineup with 11 points, six rebounds, three assists and two steals.

The Suns (35-25) were led by Kevin Durant, collecting 30 points, nine rebounds, two assists and three blocks. Devin Booker tallied 24 points, two rebounds and five assists, Jusuf Nurkic totaled seven points, 10 rebounds and five assists, while Royce O'Neale led the bench with 20 points, 11 rebounds and two assists.

Phoenix plays again on Sunday, remaining home to play the Oklahoma City Thunder. As for Houston, they return to action on Tuesday in a home matchup with the San Antonio Spurs.