HOUSTON — Jalen Green had 23 points as the Houston Rockets outmatched the Charlotte Hornets for their first win of the 2023-24 season.
The Rockets (1-3) jumped out to a big lead in the first quarter and led the rest of the way for a 128-119 win, giving the Hornets (1-3) their third-straight loss.
Houston's biggest quarter of the young season gave them a 39-27 advantage after the first period. Green and Fred VanVleet combined for 24 points in the quarter, including three 3-pointers each.
Charlotte answered back with a 31-point second quarter and cut Houston's lead to just three points heading into the locker room.
The Rockets extended their lead by five in the third quarter and led 86-78 heading into the final period. Both teams had over 40 points in the fourth quarter as Charlotte looked to force a comeback.
The Hornets pulled within five points in the final minutes but were unable to complete the rally.
Houston shot 56% from beyond the arc as they gobbled up 21 3-pointers, compared to 11 for the Hornets.
Green led the Rockets with 23 points on the night, followed by VanVleet with 22 points. All five of Houston's starters hit double-digit points.
The Hornets were led by P.J. Washington with 23 points. LaMelo Ball and Terry Rozier each had 19 points in the game.
Charlotte has lost three straight games since winning the first game of the season on Oct. 25.
The Hornets will try to end the losing streak on Saturday on the road against the Indiana Pacers.