Amen Thompson Honors Kobe Bryant in Game-Winning Tribute Against Celtics
On January 28, 2025, Amen Thompson of the Houston Rockets delivered a memorable performance against the Boston Celtics, culminating in a game-winning shot that concluded with just 0.7 seconds remaining. Thompson scored a career-high 33 points, showcasing his skills on a significant NBA stage as the Rockets claimed a hard-fought 114-112 victory over the defending champions. The triumph not only solidified the Rockets' status as a contender in the league but also marked a personal milestone for Thompson, who expressed his admiration for the late Kobe Bryant during his post-game interview.
Thompson’s game-winner came during a tightly contested match where the Rockets rallied in the final quarter to recover from a 12-point deficit. Key highlights from the game include:
- Amen Thompson: 33 points, 10 rebounds, 4 assists, shooting 68.4% from the field (13-of-19).
- Dillon Brooks: Contributed significantly with a career-high 36 points, making 10-of-15 from beyond the arc, and earning praise for his hot shooting streak.
- Jaylen Brown: Led the Celtics with 28 points, while Jayson Tatum added 19 points, 7 assists, and 6 rebounds.
- Defensive Efficiency: The Rockets demonstrated strong defense, committing only 7 turnovers against the Celtics.
Following the game, Thompson stated, “That was my first game-winner. I feel like Kobe,” reflecting on the influence of Bryant’s legacy in basketball. The victory marked the Rockets' ninth win in their last eleven games, further establishing their competitiveness in the league.
The Rockets will continue to build on this momentum as they prepare for their next matchup against the Atlanta Hawks.