The Houston Rockets opened their season with a statement, beating the Dallas Mavericks 128-110 behind 30 points apiece from Kevin Durant and Jabari Smith Jr. The turning point came in the second quarter, when Houston outscored Dallas 38-12 to take a 70-38 lead into halftime. Alperen Sengun added 23 points and 10 rebounds, and Rockets forward Tari Eason was ejected in the first quarter after a flagrant foul 2.

Dallas had bright spots despite the loss. Rookie Cooper Flagg, the number one overall pick, scored 32 points in his NBA debut, and Kyrie Irving returned from the ACL tear he suffered in March 2025 to score 15 in his first regular-season game back. It was a tough opener for new head coach Dusty May, who came to Dallas after leaving Michigan.

For North Texas basketball fans, the game raised plenty of questions about both rosters going forward. Houston looked like a team ready to contend now, while Dallas showed flashes of promise mixed with the growing pains of a new coach and a young star finding his footing. With two teams heading in interesting directions, this rivalry should be worth watching all season.

What stood out most to you from the Mavericks’ opening night? Let us know in the comments.