For most of three quarters, the Rockets got 3-pointers from James Harden, Ryan Anderson and no one else. Finally, someone else broke through, though they likely could not count for many more like it.

Nene connected on the fifth 3-pointer (in 40 attempts) in his 808-game career. The Rockets would be OK if he took a few more.

"I told him to shoot it," Rockets coach Mike D'Antoni said. "He can extend his career about five years if he hits it. But it's an easy shot for him. If you look, the form is great. We're not going to encourage it, but if he finds himself there, don't be afraid to do it. We had a few guys shoot worse than he does."

Nene said he thinks of himself more as someone to post-up and run pick-and-roll, but might look for his shot if teams lay off him when on the high post.

"I've always been shooting 3-pointers, but I know my job," Nene said. "My job is in the low-post. I set up screens. I might consider shooting more 3-points if that's necessary. If they disrespect like that, of course I'm going to shoot."