During the halftime interval, Houston’s coaching team implemented vital defensive modifications that effectively disrupted their opponents’ offensive flow and curtailed careless ball handling. By adopting a more assertive perimeter defense, the Rockets pressured ball handlers into challenging passing angles, significantly lowering turnover opportunities. This tactical shift immediately unsettled the opposition’s rhythm and swung momentum decisively toward Houston.

Key defensive enhancements included:

  • Increased screen-switching: Prevented open shots and complicated offensive sets.
  • Improved backcourt communication: Anticipated traps and minimized defensive breakdowns.
  • Focused rebounding efforts: Limited second-chance scoring and secured clean possessions.
Defensive Metric First Half Second Half
Turnovers Forced 5 12
Defensive Efficiency 98.4 87.6
Opponent Field Goal % 45.3% 38.7%