Houston Rockets narrowly beat Dallas Mavericks

The Houston Rockets have extended their lead in the first round of their NBA playoff series against the Dallas Mavericks after winning game three 130-128.

James Harden and Terrence Jones got into a rhythm early on, putting the visitors six points up by the end of the first quarter, but the Mavericks fought back before the break.

Dirk Nowitzki and JJ Barea put Dallas in front midway through the second quarter, while a run of free throws from Al-Farouq Aminu left the hosts seven points up at half time.

Harden was back on the hunt at the start of the second half for the Rockets though, quickly restoring their advantage on the way to finishing the game with 42 points.

The Mavericks tried to turn the game around in the final minute, with three free throws from Nowitzki leaving them just a point behind, but Harden made sure that Houston stayed ahead.

The Rockets will be able to win the series when the teams meet again in Dallas on Sunday.