HOUSTON, April 5 (Xinhua) -- The Houston Rockets ended their three-game skid this season against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Friday night, beating the latter 111-107 at Toyota Center.

The Rockets hadn't won a single game against the Thunder in their previous encounters on the season and has been losing for three straight games. However, they opened Friday's game strongly and held on to the victory eventually.

Houston had a lead as much as 14 points in the first half. But they met vigorous resistance from Oklahoma City in the third quarter, in which the Thunder cut the deficit and overtook the host team. A late surge from Houston in the final quarter helped them regain the lead and roll over to victory.

James Harden had 39 points, nine rebounds and seven assists for Houston. Chandler Parsons added 23 points. Kevin Durant scored 28 points and grabbed 12 rebounds for Oklahoma City.

The win improved Houston to 50-25 on the season while Oklahoma City fell to 55-20.