The Udoka name compliments Jae’Sean Tate’s impact on the bench

The Houston Rockets continued their strong recent form on Friday night, picking up a 111-104 road win over the Detroit Pistons, but it wasn’t just the stars that impressed the head coach Making Udoka. After the game, Udoka highlighted the impact of his limited bench rotation, including Jae’Sean Tate in a tough matchup that swung decisively after halftime.

Houston relied heavily on its startersbut the backup group delivered when called upon. Reflecting on the performance, Udoka explained how crucial that contribution was, especially considering the small number of players used from the bench. Coach too ensured that the due loans are givenespecially Tate.

“I think our whole bench was great. I mean, we only played three guys, Jae’Sean (Tate), Reed (Sheppard) and Clint (Capela), but all three were at a high level,” Udoka said. “Je’Sean gives us another dimension as far as transitioning, and he can guard the bigger guys, so he did a great job on their goals. Clint had great minutes, Reed obviously too. And even though we didn’t play as many guys, I think they all made a big impact, and obviously, you see that in the plus-minus.”

The Rockets went into halftime tied 52-52 despite that efficient scoring by their superstar Kevin Durantas Detroit controlled the paint early. That quickly changed after the break. Houston erupted in the third quarter with a 34-20 run, fueled by defensive intensity and timely scoring from both starters and reserves.

Durant finished with 32 points, continuing his dominance against Detroit, while Alperen Shenghun added 19 points and Reed Shepard 18 off the bench. Amen Thompson filled the stat sheet with 15 points, nine rebounds and seven assists, helping stabilize the Rockets whenever the Pistons threatened to run away.

Detroit made more of a push in the fourth quarter, cutting the deficit to just three points, but Houston responded multiple times. Josh Okogie’s third corner layup midway through the final frame proved decisive, restoring the lead to double figures and sealing the win.

The win snapped Detroit’s four-game winning streak and allowed Houston to bounce back 128-122 an overtime loss the night before against the Philadelphia 76ers. As Houston returns home to host the Memphis Grizzlies and San Antonio Spurs, keeping that energy on the bench could be key as the schedule tightens and postseason positioning becomes more of a focus.