Rockets Defeated Mavericks in China Preseason Game
The Houston Rockets secured a 135-117 victory over the Dallas Mavericks in an international exhibition contest.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Basketball
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The Houston Rockets defeated the Dallas Mavericks 135-117 during a preseason game held in China on Friday night. Kevin Durant made his debut for the Rockets in the matchup, contributing 15 points in 23 minutes of play.
Why it matters
The matchup serves as an early look at the Houston Rockets, who enter the new season with championship expectations. Integrating new additions like Kevin Durant is a critical focus for the franchise as they prepare for the upcoming regular season.
Kevin Durant recorded 15 points on 7-of-12 shooting in 23 minutes of action. His debut performance also included two assists and one block.
The players
Houston Rockets
The professional basketball team based in Houston that currently holds championship expectations for the upcoming season.
Dallas Mavericks
The professional basketball team based in Dallas that faced the Rockets in an international preseason exhibition.
Kevin Durant
A veteran basketball player who made his debut for the Houston Rockets in Friday night's preseason game.
The details
Kevin Durant attempted 12 field goals during his time on the court, including one successful three-point shot. The Rockets maintained a high offensive pace to secure their 18-point win over the Mavericks.
Timeline
The Houston Rockets played the Dallas Mavericks in China on Friday night.
Season Trajectory
This exhibition game highlights the league's ongoing effort to maintain its footprint through the NBA Global Games series. The matchup serves as a platform to test roster depth as the Rockets attempt to solidify their status as a championship-caliber team.
Kevin Durant logging 23 minutes suggests he will be a central part of the team's rotation once the regular season begins. The lopsided 135-117 score indicates the Rockets' offensive system is already functioning at a high efficiency level.
The takeaway
Preseason games allow coaching staffs to integrate high-profile talent while testing new defensive schemes against quality opponents. Readers should monitor these exhibition results as indicators of team health and rotation trends leading into opening night.
Further reading
For more on preseason developments and league news, visit Basketball.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Sports Illustrated.
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