Jabari Smith Jr. broke a 20‑shot three‑point drought with a clutch bucket in the final minutes, helping the Houston Rockets snap a four‑game losing streak with a 112‑107 victory over the Chicago Bulls on January 13, 2026. The 23‑year‑old finished with 18 points, energizing the team and shifting momentum in the Western Conference race.
The Slump and Its Impact
Smith’s shooting woes had reached a critical point, as he missed 20 consecutive three‑pointers across four games. The drought coincided with a three‑game skid that left Houston hovering near the Western Conference’s “danger zone.” Beyond the numbers, the slump weighed heavily on his confidence, and the Rockets leaned on veteran leadership to keep the team afloat.
Breakthrough Moment
With the Rockets trailing by five and 2:58 left on the clock, Smith received a hand‑off near the left elbow, turned, and released a high‑arcing three‑pointer that swished cleanly. The basket sparked a momentum shift, and six minutes later he added a mid‑range jumper and a key defensive stop, finishing with 18 points, three rebounds, and two blocks.
Durant’s Endorsement and Team Impact
Kevin Durant praised Smith’s mental toughness in the post‑game press conference, noting that “when you’re in a slump, it’s easy to get stuck in your own head. He kept shooting and trusted his teammates.” Durant’s support reinforced the younger forward’s confidence and highlighted the veteran’s mentorship role.
Teammates, including point guard Jalen Green and center Alperen Şengün, reported a palpable boost in locker‑room energy after the shot. “When Jabari hit that three, you could feel the whole squad breathe a little easier,” Green said.
Broader Implications for Houston
Smith’s resurgence provides the Rockets with a versatile 6‑8 forward capable of stretching the floor and defending multiple positions. If he sustains his shooting rhythm, Houston gains a reliable scoring option that complements its high‑tempo offense, which currently averages 112.4 points per game.
General Manager Rafael Stone highlighted the importance of resilience in the franchise’s development plan, emphasizing that Smith’s response to adversity aligns with the team’s long‑term goals.
What Lies Ahead
The upcoming stretch features back‑to‑back road games in Utah and the Pacific Northwest, where defensive intensity typically rises. Smith’s shooting percentages will be closely watched, but his renewed confidence could improve decision‑making and shot selection, helping the Rockets balance their offensive attack.
Durant’s mentorship is expected to continue shaping the young core, potentially leading to a more diversified offense that relies less on perimeter shooting and more on high‑low post actions.
Conclusion
Jabari Smith Jr.’s late three‑pointer against the Bulls was more than a scoring play—it marked a turning point for a young talent and a franchise seeking consistency. With veteran guidance and a revitalized belief, the Rockets are poised to build momentum as they head into the crucial stretch of the season, keeping their playoff aspirations firmly within reach.
