A great outing by Sims was enough to offset a superior LA Clippers team and key a 96-89 upset by Houston. There's no question that LA Clippers is the better team, and even after today's loss they remain ranked ahead of Houston. But that wasn't important today, when Sims took over and carried his team to a win. "What a gift," grinned Houston coach Bob. "The rest of the team got outplayed, but Sims stepped up and got us the win. No complaints, but we'd be surprised to get another win over LA Clippers."

Said losing coach Bob, "What a tough way to lose. It seemed like we had everything under control today. We pretty much did what we wanted, except for Sims."

Houston was led by Sims (21 points, 1 assists, 2 steals, 4 blocks), Lewis (26 points, 5 boards, 2 assists), Robertson (10 points, 8 assists, 5 steals). LA Clippers was led by Brown (31 points, 22 boards, 1 assists, 2 blocks), Davidson (5 points, 3 steals, a block), Hayes (14 points, 5 boards, 0 assists, 3 blocks).

Houston jump to 11-9 and 6-3 at home with the win. They hold at #2 in the Southwest and stay at #9 overall in the Western Conference. LA Clippers fall to 11-5. They stay at #2 in the Pacific and stay at #4 overall in the Western Conference.

box score Houston roster LA Clippers roster