Houston got just enough breaks to upset New Orleans, 113-104. The pace of play was clearly dictated by New Orleans, showing who was the better team. But Houston came up with the right plays at the right times to convert more scoring chances and come away with the win.

"We got our share of luck today," acknowledged Houston coach Bob. "They pretty much dictated the game but we were able to get the job done when it mattered. Jackson really helped us out there; we couldn't have pulled it off without him."

Houston was led by Jackson (29 points, 10 boards, 3 assists, 2 steals, 2 blocks), Howard (23 points, 5 boards, 3 assists, a block), James (16 points, 0 assists, a steal). New Orleans was led by Fletcher (30 points, 18 boards, 1 assists, 2 blocks), Taylor (5 points, 13 assists), Cummings (17 points, 1 assists, 2 blocks).

Houston stand at 38-36 and 21-15 at home. They remain at #5 in the Southwest and remain at #8 overall in the Western Conference. New Orleans drop to 44-30 after this loss. They fall to #3 in the Southwest and fall to #5 overall in the Western Conference.

box score Houston roster New Orleans roster