PREVIEW: The Houston Rockets enter Friday's matchup as the third-seed in the West with a 5-2 record, while the San Antonio Spurs sit fifth with an identical mark. Fresh off a five-game winning streak, Houston dominated Memphis 124-109 on Wednesday , while San Antonio has dropped two consecutive contests, including a heartbreaking 118-116 loss to the Lakers. The Rockets rank third in high free throw rate and midrange frequency, yet struggle defensively on the boards at a league-worst ranking. The Spurs boast the league's best rim protection on defense and excel at attacking the paint on offense, though their inefficient free throw shooting and isolation-heavy approach present vulnerabilities. Houston leads the entire league in scoring at 124.7 points per game, rebounding at 50 per game, and three-point shooting at 42.7 percent. Amen Thompson delivered 28 points and 10 rebounds against Memphis while Alperen Sengun posted a double-double with 20 points and 16 boards. Victor Wembanyama has struggled with his shooting in recent outings, combining for just 28 points on 9-of-28 shooting across the last two games. This NBA Cup matchup between the Texas rivals marks the first tournament game for both squads in West Group C, featuring Denver, Golden State, and Portland.