Houston downed Phoenix today 114-107, thanks to a solid effort by star Howard. The game lived up to its hype, with both teams having their moments but neither side able to dominate for any extended length of time. Said Howard after the game, "This one could have easily gone either way. We're just glad that we came out with the win." Coach Bob echoed the sentiments, saying "Phoenix came out strong and ready to play, and we knew from the start that it would be a battle out there. Probably if we played them 10 times, both sides would get five wins. But we got the win today, and that's what counts."

Phoenix players were disappointed after the game, and coach Bob had his hands full keeping their spirits up. "They know they played their hearts out today, and that it wasn't enough. That's a tough feeling. Especially for Whitfield, who had one heck of a game but couldn't carry the whole team on his shoulders."

Houston was led by Howard (28 points, a steal, 4 blocks), Roberson (10 points, 8 boards, 9 assists, 2 steals, 2 blocks), Rogers (21 points, 7 boards, 5 assists). Phoenix was led by Whitfield (16 points, 24 boards, 2 assists, a steal, 5 blocks), Oh (16 points, a steal, 3 blocks), Martinez (7 points, 5 boards, 8 assists, 2 steals).

Houston jump to 19-9 and 12-2 at home after this victory. They remain at #1 in the Southwest and improve to #2 overall in the Western Conference. With the loss, Phoenix fall to 12-15. They stay at #3 in the Pacific and drop to #9 overall in the Western Conference.

box score Houston roster Phoenix roster