WASHINGTON, Feb. 24 (Xinhua) -- The Houston Rockets used a big first quarter to defeat the Golden State Warriors 118-112 in an away game on Saturday.
Playing without NBA scoring leader James Harden, the Rockets blitzed the home team 15-0 at the start and led 35-20 after the first quarter. The Warriors kept trailing in the remaining time, but the Rockets answered well enough and triumphed over the defending champions in the end.
Guard Eric Gordon scored 25 points with four three-pointers while Chris Paul added 23 points and 17 assists. Forwards Kenneth Faried and P.J.Tucker had 20 and 18 apiece. Center Clint Capela, who just came back from long-time injury, scored eight points and 15 rebounds.
Kevin Durant scored 29 points for the home team and Stephen Curry added 25 points, nine rebounds and seven assists. Center DeMarcus Cousins had 13 points and 14 rebounds.
