A great game by Marchese led Houston to a 115-102 defeat of Orlando. Although Orlando certainly planned for Marchese in their pre-game strategy, stopping him during the game turned out to be more of a challenge. "We thought we knew how to beat Houston, but we were dead wrong," said Orlando coach Bob. "We figured we'd try to put them out of their game plan and try to limit Marchese's effectiveness, but it simply didn't happen - he was just too good."

Said Marchese, "I knew I had a target on my back, and took it as a challenge. If they're going to change their game plan to stop me, it gives me that much more desire to step up and perservere. Anyway, they know what I can do now, so we'll see if they dare try this strategy again." Tune in next time.

Houston was led by Marchese (21 points, 16 boards, 1 assists, a steal), Woods (12 points, 8 boards, 1 assists, a steal, a block), Leonard (13 points, 2 steals, a block). Orlando was led by Frazier (18 points, 3 assists, a steal, 2 blocks), Davis (27 points), Bryant (17 points, a block).

With the victory, Houston stand at 8-4. They hold at #2 in the Southwest and remain at #4 overall in the Western Conference. Orlando stand at 4-7 and 3-4 at home with today's defeat. They stay at #4 in the Southeast and hold at #11 overall in the Eastern Conference.

box score Houston roster Orlando roster