The Big Boss: Yao kills off Clippers

HOUSTON: Yao Ming scored 24 points, had 10 rebounds and went 12-for-13 from the free throw line to lead the Houston Rockets over the Los Angeles Clippers 103-96 on Wednesday.

Rafer Alston sank five 3-pointers and added 21 points and Ron Artest scored 19 points for the Rockets, who played their fourth straight game without Tracy McGrady. The seven-time all-star is out three weeks with a sore left knee.

"In this three weeks, we need a little bit more from everybody," Yao said. "He (McGrady) is a big part of our team. I think that everybody understands that, and everybody is clear that when we step on the court, we need to really be ready to play."