NBA: Sacramento Kings end losing streak with win over Houston Rockets

SACRAMENTO: The Sacramento Kings broke a seven-game losing streak with a convincing 111-98 win over the Houston Rockets here at the Golden 1 Center on Sunday.

DeMar DeRozan led the charge for the Kings, scoring 22 points in 37 minutes of play, helping secure the team’s first win since December 27.

Sacramento shot 48.4% from the field, with six players scoring in double figures. DeRozan’s performance included 11 points in the second quarter, lifting Sacramento to a 51-48 halftime lead.

Zach LaVine contributed 18 points, while veteran Russell Westbrook notched 15 points and 10 assists. Malik Monk added 15 points, including two consecutive 3-pointers during a critical 10-0 run in the final minutes that helped seal the victory. Maxime Raynaud chipped in 12 points, and Precious Achiuwa contributed 10.

Houston was led by Amen Thompson, who matched his season high with 31 points and added 13 rebounds and six assists.

Kevin Durant scored 23 points, while Alperen Sengun had 19 points and nine rebounds. Despite their efforts, the Rockets were outscored 33-22 in the fourth quarter, unable to hold off the Kings’ late surge.

Sacramento capitalised on Houston’s late mistakes and a strong fourth-quarter push to snap its tough losing streak.

This win marks a much-needed boost for the Kings as they begin a seven-game homestand. The team was also without guard Dennis Schroder, serving a suspension after a confrontation with Luka Doncic.

The Sacramento Kings will face Los Angeles Lakers next on Monday.