By Eurohoops team / info@eurohoops.net
The Houston Rockets defeated the Dallas Mavericks 135–117 in Macao on Friday, opening their 2026 preseason schedules with Yao Ming in attendance.
Alperen Sengun led Houston with a triple-double, recording 16 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists in just under 22 minutes.
Serbian veteran Bogdan Bogdanovic added four points in limited action, while Swiss center Clint Capela did not play. Fred VanVleet provided an early spark on his return from a lengthy injury layoff, hitting three quick three-pointers in the opening quarter and finishing with 17 points.
Cooper Flagg scored 19 points for Dallas, while French starter Zaccharie Risacher contributed nine points and eight rebounds.
Spain’s Sergio de Larrea showcased his skills with 11 points and six assists. Turkish international and former Fenerbahce sharpshooter Tarik Biberovic added nine points, while Britain’s Tobi Lawal led Dallas’ European contingent with 13. Greek guard John Poulakidas recorded three points and two assists in a brief appearance.
Spanish forward Santi Aldama remained sidelined as he recovered from right knee surgery. Dallas also rested Kyrie Irving’s left knee, although the guard is scheduled to play in Sunday’s rematch, which would mark his first game action in 19 months.
The Texas rivals will meet again at the Venetian Arena to conclude the NBA China Games 2026 before returning home for the rest of the preseason and the 2026–27 regular season.
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