Ime Udoka: Nigerian coach praises Rockets' New Year's Day win against Mavericks

The Houston Rockets defeated the in-state rival Dallas Mavericks 110-99 to earn their first victory of the season's five-game homestand.

The victory puts Houston 2.5 games ahead of Dallas for the third overall seed in the Western Conference.

Cam Whitmore, a second-year wing prospect, was the main story of Houston's game as his impressive play off the bench helped the Rockets overcome a double-digit deficit in the first half.

Following his recent return from the NBA G League to the Rockets, Whitmore has been a tremendous asset, as evidenced by his performance.

Whitmore finished with 18 points while making 7-of-9 shots and 3-of-4 from 3-point range.

In addition, he grabbed three rebounds, and Nigerian head coach Ime Udoka praised his defence after the game.

Udoka said, "A scoring spark and really good defense."

Houston's other noteworthy players were Alperen Sengun, who had 23 points, 6 rebounds, 6 steals, and 4 assists, and Jalen Green, 22 points and 5 rebounds.

Klay Thompson, a seasoned shooter with 16 points and 5 rebounds, led the Mavericks to defeat.

Despite Mavs standout Luka Doncic missing the game because of a left calf injury, Kyrie Irving contributed 16 points and 7 assists.