Pistons Vs. Rockets Final Score: Samuel Dalembert Launches Houston Past Detroit, 97-80

It started with the team's flight experiencing a "distress call" mid-air en route to Houston, which resulted in an emergency landing. On Tuesday night, the Pistons failed to launch against the Rockets, ultimately falling 97-80.

Detroit trailed by only seven at the half following a strong 20-19 advantage in the second quarter, and they pulled within three early in the third quarter, but Houston took off from there.

The Rockets hit 8-of-19 three-pointers and outrebounded Detroit, 42-35. Sam Dalembert had his way with the Pistons underneath, grabbing 12 rebounds (six offensive) and scoring 14 points. Luis Scola added 14, too, and Kyle Lowry had 13 points, five rebounds, and five assists.

Greg Monroe had his worst game of the season for the Pistons, only scoring four points on 2-for-9 shooting. He had just three rebounds at the half, but managed to still finish with 11 and six assists. Tayshaun Prince led all scorers with 20 points, but needed 22 shots to do it, though.

The Pistons, 3-11 now, are back at it again tomorrow night at Minnesota.

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Pistons Vs. Rockets Score Update: Houston Up 7 At Half, 47-40

The Detroit Pistons are in Houston tonight, taking on a red hot Rockets team currently boasting a three-game winning streak and a 4-1 home record overall. At the half, the Rockets lead the Pistons by seven, 47-40.

Houston scored 28 points in the first quarter behind 60-percent shooting, but cooled off significantly in the second quarter. Detroit scored 20 points in both quarters, but sacrificed shooting percentage in the second quarter for a far better defensive performance, outscoring the Rockets 20-19 to take some momentum into the locker room.

Greg Monroe, who has been a consistent 20-10 threat for the Pistons lately, has zero points on 0-for-3 shooting and three rebounds. Tayshaun Prince is the game's leading scorer with 12 points (he had 10 in the first). Brandon Knight added 11 for the Pistons.

For more on the Detroit Pistons, check out Detroit Bad Boys. You can also head over to SB Nation's main NBA hub at SBNation.com/NBA.

Pistons Vs. Rockets NBA Preview: Detroit Fighting Uphill Battle

For more on the Detroit Pistons, check out Detroit Bad Boys.