Jabari Smith Jr. hits game-winning 3 in Rockets' Summer League opener against Blazers, then dominates Pistons

It was an improbable ending to the Rockets' Summer League opener against the Portland Trail Blazers.

After struggling in the first half, second-year forward Jabari Smith Jr. took over in the third quarter Friday night in Las Vegas before nailing the buzzer-beating 3 in the fourth to give Houston the 100-99 victory.

With just .6 seconds left to play and fellow second-year player Tari Eason inbounding from three quarters court, Eason hooked a pass to Smith at the top of the key and he drained it just before the buzzer sounded.

Smith made an impressive block on defense on the prior possession just to even create that opportunity.

All four of the Rockets' first-round picks of the last two years still remaining on the team scored in double figures. Smith finished with 33 points to lead all scorers and added seven rebounds. Eason had 20 points, 10 rebounds, five assists and four blocked shots.

Rookie point guard Amen Thompson had 16 points and five assists, also with four blocks. Rookie Cam Whitmore scored 14 points and added 11 rebounds.

Overall, it was a very positive night for the Rockets' young core.

Brandon Scott and Adam Spolane had instant reaction on the H-Town Hoops podcast.