Tari Eason’s 20 Points Help Rockets Pull Away From Mavericks, 135-117

Houston Builds Separation

Tari Eason scored 20 points, and the Houston Rockets turned a strong second quarter into a 135-117 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Friday, Oct. 9, 2026, at Venetian Arena. Houston led 65-45 at halftime after outscoring Dallas 38-26 in the second period.

The Rockets opened the game with a 27-19 edge, then expanded the margin before halftime. Eason contributed to the early push, while Alperen Sengun supplied 10 assists and 10 rebounds for Houston.

Dallas Trims the Margin

Dallas answered with a 35-34 advantage in the third quarter, but the Mavericks could not erase the deficit. Houston entered the final period ahead 99-80 and scored 36 points in the fourth quarter. Dallas scored 37 in the final period, leaving the Rockets with the 18-point victory.

Cooper Flagg led Dallas with 19 points. Dwight Powell recorded eight assists, and Zaccharie Risacher had eight rebounds for the Mavericks.

Game Details

Houston’s scoring plays included three 3-pointers from Fred VanVleet during the opening quarter and a series of baskets that helped the Rockets establish control in the second. Dallas responded with scoring from Flagg, Max Christie, Naji Marshall and other Mavericks, but Houston maintained its advantage through the finish.

The game was played before an attendance of 11,564 at Venetian Arena, where Dallas was the home team and Houston was the visitor.

Records

The Rockets moved to 1-0 after the victory. The Mavericks fell to 0-1.

Sources

ESPN