The Houston Rockets has punched a ticket for the Western Conference semi-finals round after eliminating the Utah Jazz, 100-93.

The reigning MVP James Harden scored 26 points along with his three steals to led the Rockets in their close-out first rounder game.

Harden made a key swipe against Rudy Gobert during the crucial moments of the game. “The Beard” risked his last personal foul in that instance which fortunately was a successful steal from the “Stifle Tower”.

Harden was then got fouled and was sent to the free-throw line where he converted all of his freebies and gave his team a much more comfortable lead.

Prior to that play, Jazz guard Ricky Rubio had a chance to control the momentum of the game when he got an open look in the corner pocket for a three-pointer, 93-94.

However, his shot missed and it was an air-ball which gives way for the Rockets to take over the game.

Royce O’Neale who came in off the bench led Utah in scoring with 18 points while Donovan Mitchel added 12 points who was 4-of-22 from the field.

The Rockets will wait for the winner of the Golden State Warriors and the Los Angeles Clippers for the second round of the 2019 NBA Playoffs.

Houston vs Utah Box Score

Quarters: 20-20 | 42-46 | 69-75 | 93-100

Rockets (100) – Tucker 8, Capela 16, Paul 15, Harden 26, Gordon 15, Faried 2, House Jr. 7, Hilario 8, Rivers 3

Jazz (93) – Crowder 15, Ingles 11, Gobert 9, Rubio 17, Mitchell 12, Favors 7, Niang 4, O’Neale 18