The Houston Rockets went for their 15th consecutive win this season, beating the Denver Nuggets 103-89. This is the longest winning strike in this season of the NBA, also matching the franchise record, despite the fact that the team is missing Yao Ming, who suffered a stress fracture in his left foot and is out of the competition for the remainder of the season.

Tracy McGrady scored 22 points, had six rebounds and six assists, while Shane Battier added 20 points to the victory, the third consecutive one after loosing Yao Ming. Luis Cola score 18 points, while Rafer Alston also contributed by 16 points.

It’s been quite a season for the Rockets, who have been waiting for such a moment since the 1993-1994 season: “We know how good we are and we’re showing it,” McGrady said according to USA Today. “We’re a focused group, a group that understands how to win ballgames.”

The Rockets were in control of the game, leading for most part with a two-digit difference. “We didn’t play well,” said Allen Iverson from the Denver Nuggets, according to the same source. “I struggled all night and if I struggle the way I did, it’s going to be tough for us to win games.”

The Houston team remained confident even after losing Yao Ming, an unfortunate event that didn’t stop them however to add three more victories to their winning strike. Keeping a positive attitude made the difference so far.

In the meantime, the Denver Nuggest will win back Chucky Atkins, who suffered a surgical intervention in January and is expected to return in less than two weeks.

In other games, Lakers v. Mavericks 108-104, Wizards v. Hornets 101-84, Warriors v. Trail Blazers 110-104, Cavaliers v. Bulls 95-86, Spurs v. Nets 93-83, Bobcats v. Raptors 110-98, Kings v. Heat 120-109 and Sonics v. Timberwolves 111-108.