Olajuwon Back, but Rockets Keep On Losing

The Utah Jazz spoiled what could have been a triumphant return for Hakeem Olajuwon Saturday night at Houston.

Olajuwon rejoined the Rockets just before the game and showed no ill effects of missing six games because of an irregular heartbeat.

The all-star center played 33 minutes, scored 28 points and had 12 rebounds in a reserve role.

But the Jazz, with Jeff Malone scoring 22 points, rallied in the fourth quarter to win, 96-91.

Before Olajuwon went out, the Rockets were in a virtual tie with the San Antonio Spurs for first place in the Midwest Division. Olajuwon was averaging 21.7 points, 14 rebounds and 3.3 blocks.

The Rockets have won one of their last seven games, losing the last five in a row.

Houston trailed most of the game but forged ahead, 76-75, going into the fourth quarter. But the Rockets went five minutes without scoring, while the Jazz went on an 11-0 run.