In a season where the Oklahoma City Thunder and Cleveland Cavaliers have been two of the league’s most dominant forces, there’s only one team that’s figured them both out — twice. That team? The Houston Rockets.
Yes, you read that right. The Rockets, a young squad still finding its identity, are the only team in the NBA this season to defeat both the Thunder and the Cavs two times each. Not only is that an impressive stat, it’s a serious statement.
Let’s start with the Thunder. OKC has emerged as a powerhouse in the Western Conference, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP-caliber season and a dynamic supporting cast that includes Jalen Williams, Josh Giddey, and Chet Holmgren. With elite playmaking, efficient scoring, and a defense that’s top-tier, the Thunder have been a nightmare matchup for most teams — but not for Houston.
The Rockets handed the Thunder two losses this season, and both wins came with grit, hustle, and belief. In their first meeting, Houston’s defense clamped down, holding OKC well below their usual scoring average. Alperen Şengün dominated the paint, Fred VanVleet provided the poise and leadership, and Dillon Brooks made life difficult for Shai all night long.
The second win? Even sweeter. The Thunder came in riding a win streak, but Houston matched their energy and then some. Jalen Green had one of his most efficient games of the year, while Jabari Smith Jr. hit big shots in the fourth to ice the game. The Rockets played with confidence, and maybe even a little swagger — and it worked.
Then there’s Cleveland. The Cavaliers have been one of the most balanced teams in the East, led by Donovan Mitchell’s scoring outbursts and a ferocious frontcourt with Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. They’ve been a top defensive unit all year, locking down teams with their length and discipline. But again — Houston didn’t care.
The Rockets faced the Cavs twice and came out on top both times. In the first game, it was a defensive battle, with Houston making all the right hustle plays. Dillon Brooks frustrated Mitchell into a tough shooting night, and VanVleet controlled the tempo like a true floor general. The second matchup saw Alperen Şengün take over, showcasing his footwork, vision, and soft touch around the rim. The Rockets made big plays down the stretch and walked away with another W over a playoff contender.
What makes this feat even more impressive is that Houston isn’t a top-seeded team themselves — not yet, anyway. They’re a young group, still learning how to win consistently, but they’ve shown they’re capable of beating the NBA’s elite. Sweeping two of the league’s best teams? That’s not a fluke — that’s real progress.
Head coach Ime Udoka deserves a ton of credit. He’s brought a tough, defensive identity to this team. He’s holding players accountable, building a culture of effort and execution, and most importantly, he’s got this team believing. You can see it in the way they compete, how they communicate on the floor, and how they respond in big moments.
It’s also a sign of the depth the Rockets are developing. It’s not just one or two players carrying the load. On any given night, someone steps up — whether it’s VanVleet’s leadership, Şengün’s skill, Brooks’ defense, or Green’s explosiveness. And with young talent like Amen Thompson and Cam Whitmore waiting in the wings, the future is even brighter.
So while OKC and Cleveland are chasing top seeds and preparing for deep playoff runs, the Rockets are quietly building something special of their own. And if you’re one of the best teams in the league, you might want to check who’s already beaten you — twice.
Houston, we have a problem… and it’s for the rest of the NBA.
