MIAMI, April 22 (UPI) -- LeBron James poured in 32 points for Miami Sunday and the Heat eliminated Houston from playoff contention with a 97-88 decision over the Rockets.
Trailing 69-66 to start the final quarter, Miami outscored Houston 31-19 down the stretch to pull out their sixth win in seven games despite the absences of Dwyane Wade (dislocated finger), Chris Bosh (muscle fatigue) and Mario Chalmers (flu-like symptoms).
James scored 11 points in the final quarter and Norris Cole added 16 as the Heat closed their home schedule with a 28-5 record.
The Rockets, meanwhile, continued their disappointing slide to end the season, officially missing the playoffs with their seventh loss in eight games.
Chandler Parsons scored 23 points and Goran Dragic added 16 for Houston.
